Scammers are figuring out new ways to defraud people as digital payments increasingly become a norm in India. One of the growing threats is fake payment apps that exactly resemble trusted platforms such as PhonePe, Google Pay, or Paytm.
The fake apps are usually downloaded from unverified sources and can steal your personal and banking details or make a funds transfer silently. Many users don’t realize they’ve been duped until they check their bank statements.
Knowing how to recognise fake apps before you use them is very important. This article aims to explain how fake apps function, how to identify fake apps, and what you can do to mitigate them.
How to Spot Fake Payment Apps: 5 Red Flags?
To spot fake payment apps, make sure to remember the following 7 red flags before downloading or using the app.
- Absence on the Official Play Store or App Store
If an app is not located in the Google Play Store or Apple App Store, this is an enormous red flag. Generally, scammers share links via WhatsApp, SMS, or Telegram in order to install .APK files directly which can cause data and/or money theft.
- Only install payment apps (such as PhonePe or Paytm) from the official app stores.
- Weak Design/Spelling Mistakes
Fake payment apps have low-quality designs. If you see strange icons, poor visual design, poor navigation, or spelling mistakes in relevant menus, this shows the app is not professionally created.
- Legit payment apps like PhonePe and Paytm have great design and frequent updates.
- Unknown Developer or App Name Mismatch
Take time while investigating the name of the developer of the app. Scammers use similar looking names (for example, “Paytm India Pro” instead of “Paytm Payments Bank”) to confuse users.
- Always looks for the full name of the developer on Play Store or App Store.
- Fake “Payment Successful” Screen
Some fake apps show a green tick and a statement like “₹5,000 sent” — but no actual payment will occur. This trick is used by fraudsters because it tricks shopkeepers or sellers.
- Always verify UPI payments by checking your bank’s SMS or your UPI transaction ID (UTR).
- Unknown or Warning Reviews (from real users)
Before you download any app, have a look at user reviews. Fake apps often come with bad reviews, low ratings, or warnings from users that they have been a victim of fraud.
- Slowly reading through the most recent comments will take only a few seconds and could save you money.
Popular Methods Being Used by Fraudsters
Today, fraudsters are using new methods to trick people into installing a fake app or making wrong payments. Here are some common fraudulent methods that should be recognized:
- Using Clone Apps with Real Logos
They create fake apps that are exact replicas of real UPI apps (PhonePe, Paytm, GPay). The app logo, name and design may look the same — but steal your data or show you fake transactions after the payment is made.
- Promised Cashback or Rewards in Exchange for Installing Apps
Fraudsters may offer you ₹500 or more in cashback, if you install their app. These apps are usually not from trusted sources and your banking information may be misused.
- Requesting You to Scan QR codes and Enter UPI PIN
You might be told that you’ll “receive” money by scanning a QR code — don’t do it! Scanning a QR code and entering your PIN means you are sending money instead.
- Impersonating Bank or Delivery Agents
Scammers will call you claiming they are from your bank or courier service. They may say your KYC is still pending or that a parcel is stuck and request your UPI ID or OTP.
What to Do if You Downloaded a Fake App?
If you think you’ve downloaded a fake or suspicious payment app, act quickly.
- Uninstall the app: Uninstall the app the second you realise it is fake. Make sure that you do not start or use it any further — it may still be working in the background, capturing your data.
- Scan phone with antivirus or security app: Use a trusted mobile security app to run a full scan. This helps identify any hidden malware or spyware that the fake app may have also installed.
- Change your UPI PIN and app passwords: If you have an official UPI app (like PhonePe, Google Pay etc), make sure to change your PIN only after you get off this call. Similarly, make sure that you have changed passwords for net banking or email accounts linked to your app.
- Notify your bank and freeze UPI: Call your bank’s customer care or visit the branch to freeze UPI because it gives you some more protection if details have already been stolen from your account.
- Report the app to Google/Apple and Crime-Cyber: Report the fake app on the Play Store or App Store so others do not fall victim. You should also file a complaint on the Cyber Crime Portal.
Also Read: Why UPI Payment Fails – Common Reasons & Easy Fixes
Conclusion.
Fake payment apps are some of the most dangerous tricks scammers are using these days. ALWAYS download apps from the official stores; check the reviews and developer info; and NEVER share your UPI PIN with anyone. IF SOMETHING FEELS OFF — STOP – THINK – CHECK – REPORT. It is part of taking control of your money and personal data. Staying vigilant is the best way to protect your money and personal data.
Frequently Asked Questions.
Check the official Play Store or App store to see whether the app is available there. Check the developer name, look at reviews and comments. Check for any hints like spelling mistakes or if it asks for too many permissions. If you are unsure, then don’t install it.
Fake apps may provide fake confirmations of payment, be used to harvest your UPI details, or your phone data. This can lead to you losing money or having your identity stolen.
Not necessarily. Most apps on the Play store are real and only a small number are fake. Before you use any app, check the star rating, number of downloads, developer details and comments/reviews, and check if recent
Disclaimer:
This article is for general awareness only. Always verify payment apps from official sources. In case of fraud, contact your bank and report it at cybercrime.gov.in.
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