How to Identify Fake UPI Payment Requests?

If you’ve received a message like this, you’re not alone. With digital payments becoming the norm, fraudsters are constantly coming up with smarter ways to trick users through fake UPI requests. Whether it’s through emotional manipulation, posing as customer support, or sending misleading payment links, UPI scams are on the rise — and anyone can fall for them.

In this blog, we’ll walk you through how to identify fake UPI requests, the tactics scammers often use, and how to detect UPI payment fraud before it empties your account. Plus, if you’ve already become a target, don’t panic — we’ll guide you step-by-step on how to report fake UPI transactions and protect your money.

How to Spot Fake UPI Requests?

If someone wants to send you money, it will be credited directly to your account — you won’t be asked to approve anything. However, fraudsters send a UPI request from a fake or misleading handle that looks like you’re receiving money, when in fact, you’re being asked to pay.

1. Understand the Type of Request – Are You Paying or Getting Paid?

If someone wants to send you money, it will be credited directly to your account — you won’t be asked to approve anything. However, fraudsters send a UPI request from a fake or misleading handle that looks like you’re receiving money, when in fact, you’re being asked to pay.

UPI payment scam warning sign: You’re expecting money, but the request says “Pay.” That’s a clear UPI request from a fraudster.

2. Beware of “Verification” or “Token” Payments

This is one of the most common scam UPI payment links used in job scams or refund frauds. The scammer asks for a small payment for verification, then either disappears or continues to demand more money.

UPI payment scam warning sign: No real company charges money to verify job applications. This is a classic example of a UPI request from a fraudster.

3. Check the UPI ID Carefully

Scammers often create lookalike UPI IDs that seem close to real businesses. They may add extra numbers, spell words wrongly, or use unusual domain handles. Always scrutinize the handle before responding.

UPI fraud detection tip: Genuine companies have verified UPI IDs. Anything that looks strange or unprofessional is a red flag.

4. Watch Out for Urgent or Pressurising Messages

Many UPI scams are built on panic. Scammers create a sense of urgency to make you act without thinking. This is a major UPI payment scam warning sign.

UPI payment fraud protection tip: Real companies don’t rush you or threaten account closure. Take your time. Think. Verify.

5. Mismatch Between What They Say and What You See

Always check if the message matches the UPI request. If someone claims you’re getting paid, but the UPI request is asking you to send money, it’s a clear scam.

UPI fraud detection tip: Cashback is credited automatically — never through requests. This is a scam UPI payment link pretending to reward you.

What Should I Do If I Receive a Suspicious UPI Link?

Receiving a suspicious UPI link or collect request can be alarming — and acting quickly and correctly is important. Here’s what you should do:

1. Do NOT Click or Approve Anything

If you receive a UPI collect request or payment link from an unknown number, unverified source, or something that feels off:

• Don’t click on the link
• Don’t approve or enter your UPI PIN
• Don’t share your UPI ID, PIN, or OTP
  

This is your first line of UPI payment fraud protection.

2. Verify the Source

Ask yourself:

• Do you know the sender?
• Were you expecting this payment request?
• Does the UPI ID or name seem odd or unverified?
• Are there spelling mistakes or urgency in the message?
  

If yes to any of these, treat it as a UPI request from a fraudster.

3. Reject the Request Immediately

Open your UPI app and reject the request manually if it’s pending. Never allow a suspicious request to stay active.

4. Report the Incident

Here’s how to report scam UPI payment links:

• Via your UPI app: Most apps have a “Report” or “Help” section under the transaction/request.
• National Cyber Crime Reporting Portal: Visit https://cybercrime.gov.in and file a complaint under “Financial Fraud”.
• Call 1930: This is the official helpline for UPI payment scam reporting in India.

5. Block and Warn Others

If the scam came via WhatsApp, SMS, or email:

• Block the sender
• Report the number/email ID
• Warn others in your network or groups so they don’t fall for it

Mediums & Tools to Protect Yourself from UPI Fraud

1. Use Only Trusted UPI Apps with Security Features

Stick to verified UPI apps like Paytm or your bank’s official app. These apps come with:

• App lock (PIN/biometric)
• In-app fraud reporting
• Payment notifications
• Real-time fraud alerts
  

Tip: Always download from the official app store (Play Store or App Store) — never via links.

2. Enable Device Security

• Use screen lock (pattern/PIN/fingerprint)
• Turn on app lock for UPI/payment apps
• Keep your OS and apps updated to patch security flaws

3. Monitor Transactions with SMS & Email Alerts

Link your UPI to a bank account with SMS/email alerts enabled. This helps you catch any unauthorized payment immediately.

4. Use UPI Limits & Virtual Payment Addresses (VPAs)

• Set daily transaction limits via your bank settings
• Use separate UPI IDs for different purposes (e.g., one for shopping, one for bills)
  

This makes it easier to track and isolate fraud if it happens.

5. Stay Educated: Learn UPI Payment Scam Warning Signs

One of the best defenses is awareness. Regularly read about:

• Common scams (job offers, refunds, fake deliveries)
• New UPI fraud methods
• How to spot scam UPI payment links
  

You can also follow RBI, NPCI, or cyber safety initiatives for regular updates.