QR Code Fraud
You do not need to scan a QR code or enter a UPI PIN to receive money.
What is this fraud?
A fraudulent QR code is used to make the victim pay money or open a malicious link.
How does it happen?
A scammer says scanning a QR code will credit a refund, advance or prize, but the code creates a payment request or redirects to a fake page.
Warning signs
QR codes sent for receiving money; demand to enter a UPI PIN after scanning; pasted or altered QR codes at shops; unknown links after scanning.
How to stay safe
You do not need to scan a QR code or enter a UPI PIN to receive money. Verify merchant names and amounts before payment.
If you are a victim
Immediately notify the bank/UPI provider, call 1930, report online and save the QR image, payee UPI ID, UTR and conversation.
Evidence to preserve
Keep transaction IDs or UTRs, bank messages, screenshots, chats, emails, phone numbers, profiles, URLs, app details, and the exact date and time. Preserve original files without editing or deleting them.
Official reporting
For financial cyber fraud, call 1930 immediately, notify your bank or payment provider, and file a complaint through the National Cyber Crime Reporting Portal ↗. General technical advisories are available from CERT-In ↗.