Unified Payments Interface (UPI) has revolutionized digital transactions across India. However, as UPI usage has increased, so have UPI scams. If you ever fall victim to a UPI fraud, knowing the right steps can help you minimize your losses and even recover your money.
This detailed guide will walk you through:
- Immediate actions after a scam
- Legal sections that now apply under BNS 2023 and IT Act
- How to file complaints (step-by-step)
- How to protect yourself from future frauds
- Infographic and checklist for easy understanding
What to Do Immediately After a UPI Scam
1. Inform Your Bank Immediately
- Call customer care or use your banking app to report the incident.
- Request a written acknowledgment or a complaint/ticket number.
2. Report on Your UPI App
- Open your UPI app (Google Pay, PhonePe, Paytm, etc.).
- Navigate: Help → Report a Problem → Fraud/Scam → Submit Details.
3. File a Complaint on the National Cyber Crime Portal
- Visit: https://cybercrime.gov.in
- Choose: Report Other Cyber Crime → Financial Fraud → Fill transaction details.
4. Register a Police FIR
- Visit the nearest police station or the Cyber Crime Cell.
- Carry all evidence like:
- Bank statement
- UPI transaction ID
- Scam screenshots
- Cybercrime complaint number
Which Laws Apply to a UPI Scam? (BNS 2023 + IT Act)
As per the new legal framework, here are the updated laws:
| Section | Law | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Section 316 | BNS 2023 | Cheating and dishonestly inducing delivery of property (earlier IPC 420). |
| Section 72 | Information Technology Act | Identity theft (misuse of UPI ID, phone numbers, etc.). |
| Section 75 | Information Technology Act | Cheating by impersonation using computer resources. |
| Section 338 | BNS 2023 | Forgery for the purpose of cheating (earlier IPC 468). |
| Section 339 | BNS 2023 | Using a forged document as genuine (earlier IPC 471). |
Note:
If the scam amount is above ₹1 lakh, Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) may also be invoked.
Step-by-Step Process to File a Complaint
Step 1: Inform Your Bank
- Report fraud within 24 hours.
- Obtain a written confirmation or complaint ID.
Step 2: Report Through UPI App
- Mention transaction ID and date/time.
- Save email or chat transcripts.
Step 3: File a Cybercrime Complaint
- Use Cybercrime Portal.
- Save the acknowledgment number.
Step 4: Register a Police FIR
- Attach evidence with your written complaint:
- Scam description
- Bank proof
- Cybercrime acknowledgment
Step 5: Approach RBI Ombudsman (if Bank Fails to Act)
- If unresolved within 30 days, file a complaint at https://cms.rbi.org.in.
Can You Recover Your Money After a UPI Scam?
✅ Yes, it is possible!
As per RBI guidelines:
- If you report within 24 to 72 hours, you may qualify for zero liability and a full refund.
- Delays may affect your refund chances.
- Banks usually complete investigations within 90 days.
Important Tip:
Always keep copies of every email, ticket, complaint, and chat you submit during the process.
How to Prevent UPI Scams in the Future
| Safe Practices | Things to Avoid |
|---|---|
| Use only official UPI apps. | Never scan unknown QR codes. |
| Keep UPI PIN confidential. | Do not share OTPs or PINs. |
| Verify recipient names before payment. | Avoid suspicious app downloads. |
| Enable SMS/email alerts for transactions. | Never use public Wi-Fi for UPI. |
| Use app lock and biometric authentication. | Avoid using screen-sharing apps. |
Infographic: 5 Quick Steps After a UPI Scam
Title: UPI Scam Alert: Immediate Action Plan
- Inform your Bank Immediately (within 24 hours)
- Report the Fraud on UPI App
- Register a Complaint at Cybercrime Portal
- File an FIR at the Police Station or Cyber Cell
- Contact RBI Ombudsman if Bank Fails to Resolve
Checklist After a UPI Scam
| Action Item | Timeline | Important Note |
|---|---|---|
| Inform Bank | Within 24 hours | Get written confirmation |
| Report on UPI App | Immediately | Save chat or complaint proof |
| File Cybercrime Complaint | Same day | Save complaint number |
| Register FIR | Within 1-2 days | Submit full documentation |
| Approach RBI Ombudsman | After 30 days (if needed) | Upload all evidence |
Conclusion
Getting scammed can be a stressful experience, but fast action and proper reporting can significantly increase your chances of recovering your lost money.
Stay alert, stay informed, and never share sensitive information without proper verification!
