New big fraud in Kerala; Beware of accepting money through G Pay, UPI apps

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Kerala police warned vendors and restaurateurs of the ongoing fraud using UPI applications in Kerala. Fake digital payment apps are currently in place to dupe vendors. It has now turned pertinent for vendors to confirm receiving money to not fall for the fraud.

Most businesses accept payments through digital payment apps like Phone Pay, Google Pay, and Paytm. However, counterfeits of these apps are now in town.

After purchasing goods, fraudsters make money transactions through such fake apps, show the establishment owner a screenshot of the money being sent, and then leave.

If it is a busy rush hour at work, the owners care not to verify the screenshot and will tacitly acknowledge receiving the money.

Since fake apps work identically to the original in every way, it is difficult to detect them at first glance, or if someone expresses suspicion, they are led to believe that the transaction is delayed due to network problems. If the customer pays through digital payment, it is necessary to ensure that the amount has reached the account accurately.