UPI is still India’s fastest way to pay, but fraudsters have also upgraded their tricks in 2025. From AI voice scams to fake QR codes, users are losing thousands every day. Here’s a practical guide to the latest UPI scams and the settings you must enable to stay safe.
India Snapshot
- Popular Scams in 2025:
- AI-generated voice calls pretending to be bank/UPI support.
- Fake QR codes that pull money instead of paying.
- Fraudulent loan/refund apps that request UPI auto-debit.
- Links with phishing overlays of UPI apps.
- Costs to Users: Victims lose from ₹500 to ₹50,000+ per case.
- Payments & Refunds: RBI has made limited liability rules—report within 24 hrs for possible refunds.
- Support: NPCI helpline 1800-120-1740 + Cybercrime portal.
Stay safe and explore secure payment apps:
Download PhonePe | Try Paytm
New UPI Scams in 2025
- AI Voice Fraud – Scammers mimic relatives or bank officers using AI.
- Refund Fraud – Fake “refund apps” ask you to approve UPI requests.
- QR Code Trap – “Scan to receive money” trick, but it debits your account.
- UPI Autopay Abuse – Fraud apps set recurring debits.
- Investment Scam – WhatsApp/Telegram links for fake “UPI trading platforms.”
How to Block UPI Frauds (Settings You Must Enable)
- Daily Transaction Limit: Set custom daily limits inside your UPI app.
- App Lock: Use biometric lock (fingerprint/Face ID).
- PIN Alerts: Never share or enter PIN after scanning unknown QR.
- Linked Device Control: Unlink UPI if you change SIM or phone.
- Bank SMS Alerts: Keep SMS/email alerts ON for every debit.
Pros and Cons of UPI
Pros
Fast, free, works with all banks.
Accepted everywhere from kirana stores to IRCTC.
EMI/credit line support growing.
Cons
Human errors and scams rising.
Refunds not always guaranteed.
Needs active internet access.
Smart User Tips for 2025
- Download UPI apps only from official Play Store/App Store.
- Use one primary app—don’t link your account to too many apps.
- Set transaction limits for safety.
- Use UPI Lite for small spends (₹200–₹500 wallet style).
- Report fraud instantly to your bank and NPCI.
Secure your payments with India’s top UPI apps:
Get PhonePe | Use Paytm
In 2025, UPI remains India’s most powerful payment system, but scams are evolving fast. The best defense is user awareness and using in-app safety features like daily limits, app locks, and UPI Lite. Don’t fall for QR or refund scams—block them before they block your money.
