UPI Scams in India

UPI scams in India trick you into APPROVING a payment (via a QR scan or collect request) while believing you are receiving money. On UPI, you never enter a PIN to receive funds — only to send them. Decline unknown collect requests and never scan a QR to "get a refund".

How the scam works

1. You are told a refund/prize is pending and shown a QR or collect request.
2. Approving it or entering your UPI PIN sends money from your account.
3. Scammers often pose as Paytm/PhonePe/Google Pay support to add pressure.

Red flags

• "Scan QR to receive money"
• UPI collect request to claim a refund
• Being asked for your UPI PIN to receive
• Urgency ("refund will lapse")

Example message

You have received a refund of ₹4,999. Scan the QR or approve the collect request in your PhonePe app to credit it.

What to do

• Receiving money never needs a PIN or QR scan.
• Decline unknown collect requests.
• Verify refunds in the original app/order.
• Report at cybercrime.gov.in or call 1930.

FAQ

This is general safety information, not legal or financial advice. If you have lost money or shared sensitive details, contact your bank and your national fraud agency immediately.