As technology is being applied more and more to our money management needs, We are under great threat from financial scams, The best example is UPI banking fraud. So, to avoid falling prey to these reprobates, constantly evolving new schemes to delude unsuspecting people, all must be vigilant and informed. With that in mind, here are some tips to help keep your money safe from crooks.
Learn about Common Scams
Read up on different types of scams involving banks and the UPI. Your awareness is the first line of defense against dishonest merchants: keep your fingers on the pulse and don’t let them fool you again.
Verify the Authenticity of Requests
Be careful with all unsolicited phone calls, e-mails or SMS received from your bank or UPI service provider. The scammer often acts like a bank staff or government official to cheat you out of sensitive information.
Beware of Asking Personal Information
Your bank will never ask for PIN, OTP (One Time Password) or login details over phone or online chat. Do not give this information out, no matter how convincing they are.
Use secure transaction channels
When using UPI or online banking for transactions, make sure that the service carries a secure and trusted label. Do not click on any suspicious links or download personal files from unknown and uncertain sources that might contain malware designed to steal your information.
Double Check URLs and Websites
Every time you type in some personal data or make a purchase online, check the URL to see if something is amiss. Look for “HTTPS” and make sure that the URL is the correct address of the legitimate organization’s official website.
Enable Two – Factor Authentication
Whenever possible, enable two – factor authentication (2FA) for your bank accounts and UPI. This adds an extra layer of protection by requiring a second identity check, such as the one made via mobile phone sent code, to verify before you can actually complete a transaction.
Two-factor authentication is an important security measure because it makes it much harder for someone to access your account if they only have your password. Even if someone manages to guess or steal your password, they would still need to have your phone or authenticator app in order to log in.
There are a few different ways to set up two-factor authentication, but the most important thing is to make sure that you use a strong and unique password for your account, and that you keep your authenticator app or phone safe and secure.
To enable two-factor authentication using Google or Microsoft authenticator app.
Use strong passwords and don’t reuse them.
Use strong passwords: A strong password is one that is difficult for someone else to guess. It should be at least 8 characters long and include a mix of uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols.
Test Your Password Strength Here
Monitor Your Accounts Regularly
Pay attention to your bank statement s and transaction history. Immediately notify your bank of any unauthorized activities or transactions. The sooner you discover fraudulent activity, the sooner you respond to protect yourself from potential damage.
Beware Impersonation Scams
Scammers may impersonate trusted individuals, such as friends, family members, or even bank employees, to gain your trust. Always verify the identity of the person you are communicating with, especially if they are requesting financial assistance or sensitive information.
Protect Your Devices
Make sure your equipment, including smart phones, netbooks and computers, are all topped off with an antivirus program and the latest in security updates. Always use strong (and different) passwords for your online bank and UPI accounts. Think about adding biometric authentication for additional security protection.
Reporting Suspicious Activity Immediately
If you suspect that you’ve been a victim of bank or UPI fraud, report the matter to your bank and all other relevant agencies without delay. Action taken right away can stop further harm from being done and might even lead to catching the crooks.
Educate Yourself And Others
Talk about your own insights and experiences with bank fraud, UPI fraud and financial crime in general with members of your family, friends and workmates. Followers can be urged to consult the relevant instructions in online security practices and not let their attention slip at any time for potential scams.
In conclusion, defending against banking and UPI fraud means being alert, being cautious and taking active measures. By learning more about the issue, doing business through secure channels and promptly reporting any suspicious activity, you can prevent yourself from falling prey to financial frauds and keep your hard-earned money safe. However, remember that it is always better to be safe than sorry when it comes to safeguarding your personal and financial information.
