INDIA: The National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI), the organization driving innovation and powering India’s digital payment revolution has reiterated its commitment to enhancing consumer safety in digital payments by advocating the ‘Stop, Think, Act’ principle. As digital transactions continue to grow, NPCI urges users to remain vigilant and adopt best practices to safeguard themselves against fraud.
Growing Adoption of UPI and the Need for Digital Safety
Unified Payments Interface (UPI) has become a key driver of digital transactions in India, accounting for 83% of total payment volume in CY-2024. In January 2025, UPI processed 16.99 billion transactions, reflecting a 39% year-on-year growth in volume and a 28% year-on-year growth increase in transaction value. Over the past five years, UPI adoption has soared at a CAGR of 74%, making it the largest retail payment system in transaction volume. Since its inception, UPI has onboarded over 460 million unique users, facilitating digital transactions across various segments.
NPCI’s Multi-Layered Security Framework
UPI stands out not only for its convenience but also for its robust security framework, which ensures the integrity of every transaction. NPCI employs advanced protocols and stringent safeguards such as device binding. The feature links a user’s account to a specific mobile device, ensuring that a third party cannot access it without the registered mobile device. Furthermore, UPI incorporates a two-factor authentication that requires users to verify their identity using their mobile number and the user’s UPI PIN before authorizing any transaction.
Consumer Advisory: How to Stay Safe?
While UPI is equipped with robust security features, fraudsters continue to exploit social engineering tactics. Consumers must remain cautious of scams.
NPCI advises all UPI users to follow the ‘Stop, Think, Act’ principle:
- STOP before responding to unexpected calls, messages, or emails requesting personal or banking details
- THINK and verify requests by checking official sources such as company websites or customer service helplines
- ACT wisely by avoiding suspicious requests and immediately reporting fraud attempts to the relevant authorities
How to Report a Fraud?
Users who suspect fraud should report incidents immediately. Suspicious cases can be reported to the national cybercrime helpline (1930) or through the National Cyber Crime Reporting Portal (https://cybercrime.gov.in). The user should also report the case to their bank. Additionally, users should save messages, take screenshots, and document interactions to help authorities take action.
By staying informed and alert, users can enjoy the convenience of digital payments while keeping their money safe. UPI is committed to ensuring a secure and seamless digital payment experience for everyone across India.
Do’s & Don’ts for UPI users
Do’s
- Ensure your mobile number is registered in the bank’s records
- Always check the UPI app prompt notifications during transactions
- Enter UPI PIN only for payments
- Report fraud or suspicious transactions only with your bank or the police
- Obtain bank contact details only from its official website – avoid search engines
Don’ts
- Never forward an SMS or OTP if asked by an unknown person
- Keep your debit card details and UPI PIN confidential
- Never download any unknown app, especially remote access apps, unless fully verified
- Do not share your transaction details on social media
