If you’ve ever sent money to the wrong person via UPI, your first thought might be: ‘Can I trace the person behind a UPI ID?’, ‘How do I find out who owns a UPI ID?’
While UPI (Unified Payments Interface) is designed for security and privacy, there are ways to initiate recovery in case of wrong transfer. In this guide, we’ll explain whether it’s possible to trace the UPI ID owner, what steps you can take in Paytm or other apps, and how to escalate through NPCI if needed.
Is UPI ID Traceable by Common Users?
Regular users may not directly identify UPI ID details due to privacy and regulatory guidelines. UPI IDs (also known as VPAs – Virtual Payment Addresses) are designed to mask personal information such as account numbers and IFSC codes. However, there are methods and support systems to help resolve a wrong UPI transfer to an unknown person.
You Can Track a UPI Transaction – Here’s How
If you’re using Paytm, follow these steps to track the transaction and initiate recovery:
1. Check the Transaction History
Go to the Paytm app, navigate to ‘Balance and History’, and locate the failed or incorrect transfer.
2. Verify the UPI ID
Check the UPI ID (VPA) to which the money was mistakenly sent.
3. Contact the Recipient Directly (If Possible)
If you can identify or contact the recipient, reach out and request a refund politely. Share the transaction ID and amount for clarity.
4. Contact Paytm Support
If you’re unable to reach the recipient, use Paytm’s in-app support to raise a complaint.
Tap “Check Balance History” > Select Transaction > Report Issue
5. Contact Your UPI Service Provider
If the issue isn’t resolved within the app, contact your bank or UPI app provider (e.g., Paytm, BHIM) directly. Provide:
- UPI ID of recipient
- Transaction ID
- Amount and date
- Screenshot of the payment
Can Police Trace UPI ID?
Yes. If a large amount is involved or fraud is suspected, police can trace UPI ID owner via:
- NPCI
- Recipient bank
- UPI app providers
You must file a cybercrime complaint with all available transaction details. Law enforcement can request identity info via legal channels.
How to Escalate UPI Complaints (Via NPCI)
If all other channels fail, escalate the complaint to NPCI (National Payments Corporation of India), which manages UPI transactions nationwide.
Steps to Follow:
- Raise a complaint on your UPI app (TPAP) for the failed or wrong transfer
- If unresolved, escalate to the PSP Bank
- Next, approach your linked bank
- Then, escalate to NPCI at www.npci.org.in
- If still unresolved, file a complaint with the Banking Ombudsman / Ombudsman for Digital Complaints
This process applies to both fund transfers and merchant UPI transactions.
Note: Your UPI app (TPAP) should keep you informed about the status of your complaint directly within the app.
Why UPI IDs Are Protected
- UPI follows RBI and NPCI compliance
- Protects personal data from fraud
- Prevents harassment or misuse of financial identities
- Ensures safer peer-to-peer and merchant transactions
Conclusion: While you can’t trace a UPI ID owner like a contact number, there are structured ways to report, escalate, and possibly recover your money from a wrong UPI transfer to an unknown person. With prompt action, clear documentation, and app-based support, many such issues are resolved efficiently.
If you’re a Paytm user, always double-check the UPI ID before sending money. But if something goes wrong, don’t worry—start with transaction history, contact support, and escalate if needed.
Is it possible to identify UPI ID details in Paytm?
What should I do after a wrong UPI transfer to an unknown person?
Can police trace a UPI ID owner in India?
What details do I need to trace a wrong UPI transfer?
- UPI ID to which the money was sent
- Transaction ID/reference number
- Date and time of transaction
- Amount transferred
- Screenshot or proof of the transaction
