Common Techniques Used in Fake Payment UPI Scams

UPI has made payments effortless but it has also opened doors for scammers. According to IBTimes India, with over 27 lakh fraud cases worth ₹2,145 crore reported in recent years, the scale of the UPI scam problem is significant. 

Let’s break down the most common techniques used in a fake UPI payment scam, so you know exactly what to watch out for. 

1. Fake Payment Screenshots 

One of the most common fake payment scam tactics. 

• Scammers show edited screenshots or fake SMS confirmations. 

• Sellers hand over goods without verifying actual credit. 

• Real case: Fraudsters in India used fake screenshots to buy electronics and jewelry without paying. 

Tip: Always check your bank/app notification and not just payment screenshots. 

2. ‘Collect Request’ Trick (Request vs Pay Confusion) 

A classic fake UPI scam technique. 

• Scammer sends a ‘collect request’ saying ‘Accept to receive money.’ 

• Victim enters UPI PIN → money gets debited instead. 

Remember: Entering your PIN = sending money, not receiving it. 

3. QR Code Scam 

This is a growing fake UPI payment scam method. 

• Scammer shares a QR code claiming it will ‘credit’ money. 

• Scanning actually triggers a payment from your account. 

Remember: QR codes are for paying and not for receiving. 

4. Overpayment Scam 

A subtle but dangerous fake payment scam. 

• Scammer ‘accidentally’ sends extra money (or claims so). 

• Asks you to refund the excess. 

• Original payment is fake or reversed later. 

Tip: Always verify if money is actually credited before refunding. 

5. Screenustomer Care & KYC Scams 

• Fraudsters impersonate banks, apps, or NPCI. 

• Ask for OTP, PIN, or ‘KYC update.’ 

• Leads to full account takeover. 

7. SIM Swap Fraud 

• Scammers duplicate your SIM using stolen details. 

• Gain access to OTPs and UPI apps.  

How You Can Protect Yourself from Payment Scams? 

1. Never Share UPI PIN or OTP 

No legitimate service will ask for it. 

2. Verify Payments in Your Bank App 

Don’t rely on SMS or screenshots. 

3. Avoid Unknown QR Codes 

They are meant to send money. 

4. Decline Unknown Collect Requests 

Especially from unknown numbers. 

5. Don’t Install Screen Sharing Apps on Request 

Banks never ask for remote access. 

6. Use Official Apps & Links Only 

Avoid random links on WhatsApp/SMS. 

7. Enable Transaction Alerts 

Real-time alerts help detect fraud instantly. 

Impersonation Techniques Used in UPI Scams 

Scammers rely heavily on trust manipulation in a fake UPI scam. The below impersonation tricks are key drivers behind many fake UPI payment scam cases. 

1. Bank Officials or RBI Representatives 

• Fake calls, claiming account issues or KYC updates. 

2. Buyers on OLX/Marketplace 

• Show fake payment proof to trick sellers. 

3. Customer Support Agents 

• Fake Google listings with scam numbers. 

4. Friends/Family in Emergency 

• Hacked WhatsApp accounts requesting urgent money. 

5. Government Schemes or Refunds 

• Fake cashback, subsidy, or tax refund messages. 

What to Do If You Suspect a Scam? 

1. Immediately Contact Your Bank 

Request to freeze or block transactions. 

2. Call 1930 (India Cybercrime Helpline)** 

Fast reporting improves recovery chances. 

3. Report on cybercrime.gov.in** 

Official government portal for fraud complaints. 

4. Block Your UPI ID 

Prevent further unauthorized transactions. 

5. Save Evidence 

Screenshots, transaction IDs, phone numbers. 

Final Thoughts 

With 1 in 5 Indian users reportedly experiencing UPI fraud, awareness is your strongest defense. Most scams don’t rely on hacking, they rely on human error and urgency. The more you understand how a UPI scam works, the harder it becomes for fraudsters to succeed. 

FAQs on UPI Scams 

1. What are the most common UPI scams? 

The most common include fake screenshots, collect request fraud, QR code scams, impersonation calls, and overpayment scams. 

2. How can I identify a fake UPI payment? 

Check your bank balance or transaction history. If money isn’t credited there, it’s likely a fake UPI scam. 

3. Can scammers steal money through UPI collect requests? 

Yes. If you approve a collect request and enter your PIN, money gets debited—this is a common fake payment scam tactic. 

4. How do overpayment scams work in UPI transactions? 

Scammers claim they overpaid and ask for a refund. The original payment is either fake or reversed later, making it a fake UPI payment scam.