Making UPI payments through GPay, PhonePe, Paytm? Keep these 5 safety tips in mind

With online scams on rise, scammers are now targeting online payment methods to steal money from people.

It would not be wrong to say that with UPI payments, India has seen a digital revolution of sorts. In a few taps on your smartphone, one can send or receive money instantly, securely, and hassle-free.

Also, UPI payments are faster than other online payment methods, and they also work on multiple banks and platforms. But with these payments becoming common, the online frauds are now common too with cybercriminals constantly devising new schemes to steal money from unsuspecting users. Not to miss, UPI payments are not immune to these scams and hence, one needs to be extra careful when using them.

Here are a few things to keep in mind to make a UPI payment safely:

Use a trusted UPI app

With different UPI apps available, make sure to choose one that is trusted and secure. Some of the most popular UPI apps are Google Pay, PhonePe, and Paytm, as they are backed by major banks and financial institutions.

Keep your UPI PIN safe

Always and always, keep your UPI PIN safe as it is the key to your money. Do not share your PIN with anyone, and you should also change your PIN regularly.

Verify the recipient's details

Before making a UPI payment payment, make sure that you verify the recipient's details like their name, UPI ID, and mobile number. Use the "Verify Payment Address" feature on your UPI app to do the same.

Be careful of phishing scams

Phishing scams try to trick you into revealing your personal information, such as your UPI PIN or bank account number. So, if you receive a suspicious email or text message, contact the company to verify the message.

Keep your device secure

Not just your UPI app, also keep your device safe as it is also a target for hackers. Install a security app and keep your operating system and apps up to date. Also, use your password or PIN to lock your device.