Suddenly, you receive a message on your phone stating that someone has mistakenly transferred money to your bank account and is requesting a refund. When you check your balance, the amount has indeed been credited. While it might seem appropriate to return the money out of humanity, your haste could lead you to a major online fraud. Fraudsters

attempt to withdraw money from people's accounts using fake payment messages, QR codes, and under the guise of demanding a refund. Therefore, there are some important things to keep in mind when receiving money from an unknown person.

First, check whether the money has actually arrived in your account.
If an unknown person claims to have sent money to your account, don't blindly trust their screenshots or messages. Instead, open your bank account or UPI app and check your transaction history, matching the date of receipt, amount, transaction ID, and sender's details. If there's no actual record of the money arriving in your account, don't send the money back to anyone, even by mistake. Furthermore, if the money has actually arrived, don't spend it or transfer it to another account. Furthermore, exercise caution in financial matters and trade forex with accurate information.

Don't make the mistake of scanning a QR code.
Scammers often send QR codes under the guise of refunding your money. They say, "Scan it and your money will be refunded." However, if you enter your UPI PIN after scanning the QR code, money could be deducted from your account.

Remember, you don't need to enter your UPI PIN to receive money. The PIN is used to authorize payments. Never share your OTP, card number, internet banking password, or UPI PIN with anyone you don't know.

How should you respond to someone asking for a refund?
If someone has truly sent money by mistake, encourage them to file a complaint with their bank or UPI service provider. Don't attempt to return the money yourself, especially if the other person is asking you to transfer the money to a different UPI ID or bank account. If they repeatedly call, threaten, or pressure you to return the money immediately, stop communicating with them.

To avoid any unwanted transactions or fraud, first contact your bank's official customer care number and provide complete details to learn how to proceed. Additionally, preserve all records of messages and transactions—especially screenshots of bank transactions, WhatsApp chats, SMS, and call records. This evidence will be useful if a complaint is filed regarding this amount in the future. If you suspect fraud, immediately inform your bank. Alternatively, you can file your complaint on the National Cybercrime Portal cybercrime.gov.in or call the helpline number 1930 for assistance.

Don't panic or rush to return money from an unknown person. Check with your bank first. Keep your money safe and follow the bank's procedures for returning it.

PC: ZEE NEWS