Don't Scan That Code! UPI Scam Alert 🚨

QR Code Fraud: The Hidden Danger in UPI Payments

💳 Understanding UPI QR Code Scams

In this scam, fraudsters send a QR code via WhatsApp, email, or even social media. They may say it’s for “sending you money” — but when the victim scans it, the code actually initiates a payment request instead.

Here’s how the scam typically works:

1. Fraudster Poses as Buyer
   Someone shows interest in purchasing an item you posted online (on OLX, Facebook Marketplace, etc.).

2. “I’ll Pay You Now” Trick
   They send you a QR code and say, “Just scan this code and enter your UPI PIN to receive the money.”

3. The Trap
   You scan it, enter your PIN, and instead of receiving money — you unknowingly authorize a payment to the scammer.

4. Funds Gone Instantly
   Your account is debited in seconds. By the time you realize the mistake, the scammer has disappeared.

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📷 Real Incident Example

A Delhi resident selling a used fridge online was contacted by a “buyer” who insisted on sending a token advance via UPI. The scammer shared a QR code and asked the seller to scan it and enter his UPI PIN. Within seconds, ₹25,000 was debited from his account. No fridge was ever collected, and the scammer’s number was unreachable.

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🚩 Red Flags in UPI Scams

• “Scan this QR to receive money”

• “I’ll send you a token amount right now”

• QR codes sent via WhatsApp from unknown numbers

• Urgency: “I’m in a rush; just scan it fast”

• Asking for your UPI PIN — never share it

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🛡️ How to Stay Safe

✅ Never scan a QR code sent by a stranger, even if they claim to send you money.
✅ Do not enter your UPI PIN unless you’re making a known payment.
✅ Verify payment direction: Receiving money doesn’t require PIN entry.
✅ Use official apps only and ignore suspicious payment requests.
✅ Enable transaction alerts and daily debit limits on your bank account.

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📞 What To Do If You’re a Victim

1. Immediately call your bank’s helpline and block further transactions.

2. Report the incident on https://cybercrime.gov.in.

3. File a FIR at your nearest police station.

4. Inform your bank in writing for reimbursement if eligible under RBI’s guidelines.

5. Share your experience on social media to prevent others from falling into the trap.

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🔍 Final Advice

Scammers are using clever ways to exploit UPI’s convenience. Always remember — receiving money never requires scanning a code or entering a PIN. Stay alert, think twice, and educate others around you. A moment of doubt can save you from losing your hard-earned money.