With the rise of digitization in the last decade, online transactions have become a common part of daily life, and the popularity of UPI (Unified Payment Interface) transactions has skyrocketed. The convenience and simplicity of UPI payments have made it a preferred choice for millions. According to the National Payments Corporation of India ( NPCI ), UPI transactions amounted to approximately ₹20.64 lakh crore in 2024, highlighting its widespread use. However, with this increased usage, a new scam has emerged, known as the UPI AutoPay Request Scam . Here’s what you need to know about it.
Understanding UPI AutoPay
The UPI system has simplified online payments by allowing users to make transactions through a QR code or UPI ID. However, certain payments require regular intervals, such as mobile recharges, mutual fund investments, loan repayments, credit card bills, electricity payments, or even OTT subscriptions. To ensure timely payments without the hassle of remembering due dates, the NPCI introduced the 'UPI Auto-Pay' feature in 2020.
This feature allows automatic deductions from your account on the specified date, helping you avoid late fees and penalties. All you need to do is set up the AutoPay function, and your payments are taken care of automatically.
What is the UPI AutoPay Request Scam?
The UPI AutoPay Request Scam is a new way for scammers to exploit unsuspecting users. In this scam, fraudsters send fake AutoPay requests to users, often claiming they relate to unpaid bills or expired subscriptions. These requests may appear to be from legitimate companies that usually send you AutoPay or collect money requests, making them seem trustworthy.
Since users frequently receive such requests, they may unknowingly approve them, leading to unauthorized payments from their accounts.
How to Protect Yourself from the UPI AutoPay Request Scam
To safeguard yourself from this scam, it’s essential to follow these precautionary steps:
Avoid Linking Your Bank Account Directly to Your UPI ID: Instead of linking your primary bank account, consider using a separate account with limited funds for UPI transactions. This reduces the risk of losing a significant amount of money in case of fraud.
Use Wallet Apps for Auto Payments: Consider using digital wallet apps for setting up AutoPay instead of directly using your bank account. Keep a limited balance in these wallets to minimize potential losses.
Double-Check UPI ID and Details: Always verify the UPI ID and details of the AutoPay request before approving any transaction. Be cautious of unfamiliar or suspicious requests.
Reject Unknown AutoPay Requests: If you receive an AutoPay request from an unknown service or source, do not approve it. It's better to decline the request and investigate further to avoid falling into a scam.
By staying vigilant and following these tips, you can protect yourself from the UPI AutoPay Request Scam and continue to enjoy the convenience of digital payments securely.