Secure your money: 5 UPI security habits you need to adopt to avoid UPI scams

Always be cautious
UPI transactions are quick and convenient, but convenience comes at a price—especially when fraudsters are becoming increasingly clever and smart. The key to safeguarding your online transactions is being vigilant each time. Verify the recipient's details before proceeding with the payment; never approve payment requests from unknown persons or click on suspicious links even though they might seem to be from known sources or customer support personnel.

Secure your UPI PIN
Your UPI PIN is your account password. Don't share it with anyone, even if they say they are working for your bank. Don't store the PIN in your phone or write it down. Update your UPI PIN from time to time, and choose a new one that has nothing to do with your date of birth or your ATM PIN. If your phone is stolen or lost, lock the UPI immediately through your bank or the app.

Download apps cautiously
Download UPI apps from genuine developers through official app stores such as Google Play or App Store—always authenticate developer details before installation. Never download payment apps through links, SMS, or WhatsApp. Some fake apps are replicas of genuine UPI interfaces and they will capture your login credentials. Ensure that your apps are updated with the latest security patches.

Utilize device-level protection
Ensure that your phone is locked securely—enable biometrics or a strong password rather than easy patterns. Never get on to an open Wi-Fi system to make UPI payments since they can give hackers a free path to get hold of your data. Install anti-virus software on your phone and ensure your operating system is also updated. These are simple precautions that reduce the chances of malware accessing your UPI apps.

Report fraud immediately
In case you feel that you have been a victim of UPI fraud, call your bank or UPI app customer care immediately and freeze your transactions. You can even register your complaint on the NPCI portal or through the cybercrime portal (cybercrime.gov.in). Most importantly, maintain evidence like transaction IDs and screenshots which will aid in your case. The earlier you do it, the better are the chances of recovery of your money.

Be vigilant on a day-to-day basis
Staying safe using UPI does not need technical expertise—just constant watchfulness and meticulous habits. Cyber robbers are employing sophisticated techniques in the digital-first 2025 world, but fewer meticulous habits are sufficient to provide effective protection. Regularly scanning your transactions, keeping your UPI app updated, and using sanctioned sources alone will go a long way. Small habits make a large impact while protecting your hard-earned money from increasing cyber attacks and financial fraud.