UPI Auto Pay Scam Alert: Be careful while using UPI – don’t click on unknown links and avoid falling for tempting offers.
Unified Payments Interface (UPI) has made sending money and paying bills super easy. With just a few taps, people can transfer thousands or even lakhs of rupees.
This is why UPI transactions are hitting new records every month. But as more people use it, the number of fraud cases is also rising.
Now, cybercriminals are using a new trick called the UPI Auto Pay Request Scam to cheat people and steal their money.
What is the UPI Auto Pay Feature?
The UPI Auto Pay feature is designed for regular monthly payments like mobile recharge, OTT subscriptions (like Netflix), or mutual fund SIPs.
You approve the payment once, and the money is deducted automatically every month on the due date. It’s helpful to avoid missing payments or paying late fees.
But Scammers Are Misusing This Feature
Now, fraudsters are misusing this auto pay facility. They trick people into approving auto-pay requests unknowingly.
Once approved, money starts getting deducted regularly from the person’s bank account without their knowledge.
How Do People Fall for This Scam?
Cybersecurity experts say scammers use many clever ways to trap people:
Fake Links: Fraudsters send fake links through SMS, emails, or social media. When clicked, these links lead users to unknowingly approve auto-pay requests.
Fake Customer Care Calls: Scammers pretend to be from banks or UPI companies and ask for your UPI PIN, claiming they are helping with some issue.
Cheap Offers or Fake Apps: They offer fake subscriptions at low prices. As soon as payment is made, auto-pay is secretly activated.
Cashback or Reward Traps: They promise cashback, rewards, or loan approvals and trick users into accepting auto-pay requests.
What If You Get Trapped?
If you fall into this scam, don’t panic. Report the fraud immediately to your bank or UPI app provider.
Most UPI apps have a ‘Report Fraud’ or ‘Raise Dispute’ option. Use it right away. Also, send a written complaint to your bank either through email or by visiting the nearest branch.
Can You Get Your Money Back?
It depends on how fast you act. If you report the fraud quickly and have enough proof, there is a good chance the money can be recovered. Banks and UPI companies often help in such cases.
Stay Alert, Stay Safe
Always remember:
No bank or UPI company will ask for your OTP or UPI PIN on a phone call.
Never click on unknown links.
Don’t fall for tempting offers or cashback deals without checking properly.
Being aware is your best defense against UPI scams. Protect your money by staying cautious.
