Fraudsters are always looking for ways to exploit mobile payment systems and their scams seem to grow increasingly sophisticated each time. Staying safe when using UPI should thus be a top priority. Below, we list seven essential tips to keep your financial information and transactions secure when using UPI apps. Let’s take a look. Keep your UPI PIN under lock and key Your UPI PIN is the key that unlocks access to your bank account, so never share it with anyone. Treat your UPI PIN like you would an ATM PIN - it's meant to be private. Only enter your UPI PIN on the official UPI PIN entry page that pops up in your banking app. Avoid entering it anywhere else, even if asked by customer support. They should never need your PIN. Confirm who you're paying to Before sending money via UPI, double-check that you have the correct recipient name and UPI ID entered. It's easy to accidentally send funds to the wrong person if you're not paying attention. Taking an extra moment to verify details can save you a major headache. If the name looks unfamiliar, run it through the recipient to confirm before initiating the transfer. Stick to the official UPI PIN page The UPI PIN entry page you see when making transfers looks the same across all UPI apps. That's because it's a secure gateway provided by NPCI, the official UPI provider. Only enter your PIN on this page - not on any other site or app. Some scammers may try to mimic the UPI PIN page through phishing links to steal your PIN and access your account. As long as you use the official PIN page within your banking app, your information stays protected. Don't download strange apps If an unknown person contacts you asking to install a screen sharing or SMS forwarding app, just say no. Never download software at the request of someone you don't know and trust. Such apps may be used to compromise your phone security and gain access to confidential financial information. Only install apps from official app stores or your bank. Use secure networks for UPI Avoid using public Wi-Fi networks for making UPI payments or accessing your account. Public networks can easily be monitored by hackers looking to steal financial data. Try to make payments over mobile data or the Wi-Fi at your home or office, which are significantly more secure. This prevents snoops from intercepting your sensitive information. Review transaction history regularly Make a habit of regularly checking your UPI transaction history for any activity you don't recognise. You can do this by going through the transaction history on both the UPI apps you use or your bank statement. If you spot transfers you didn't make, odd payments, or anything else suspicious, report it to your bank immediately. Acting quickly can help prevent financial loss from fraud. Never share financial details publicly Avoid posting or sharing any sensitive financial information online or via SMS. This includes your UPI PIN, password, account numbers, or any other private details. Legitimate companies will never ask for such info on social media or other public platforms. Providing it gives scammers access to your accounts. Keep your financial activities confidential for security. Taking these basic precautions will help ensure your money stays where it belongs - in your accounts.
