The National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) has issued five key digital payment safety tips for the festive season. Festivals bring discounts, gifting and cashback offers. They also bring a spike in online fraud. NPCI wants shoppers to stay alert and pay safely.
Why Festive Season Is Prime Time for Payment Scams
Sales and limited-time deals push people to decide fast. Scamsters know this. They use social engineering to rush shoppers into “too good to be true” offers. As scams grow smarter, a few mindful habits can keep your money safe.
5 Key NPCI Safety Tips for Secure Digital Payments
1. Shop Only on Official Apps and Websites
Fraudsters build lookalike websites during sale season. Their goal is to steal personal and payment details.
- Type the web address yourself, or use the official app.
- Avoid links and files from unknown sources.
- Be extra careful with messages promising festive offers or greeting cards. They can lead to fake sites or carry harmful software.
2. Complete Payments Only Within the Platform
Some scams push buyers to pay through external UPI IDs or links. This skips the platform’s safety checks.
- Always pay on the official checkout page.
- Confirm the seller’s details before you pay.
3. Be Careful with Free Vouchers and Cashback Promises
Messages offering rewards, cashback or festival gifts often ask for OTPs, account details or a small “fee.”
- Genuine offers never need sensitive information or upfront payment.
- Verify the offer directly on the official app or website.
4. Treat Unexpected OTP Requests as a Warning
Some messages claim a payment failed or an account is blocked. They then ask for an OTP to “fix” it.
- An OTP exists only to confirm a transaction you started.
- Banks and payment apps never ask for OTPs over calls or messages.
- Never share an OTP with anyone who contacts you, even if they claim to represent your bank.
5. Don’t Act Under Pressure
Scammers create urgency. They say an offer will expire soon or your account will be blocked.
- Genuine platforms do not use fear or rush tactics.
- Pause and verify through the official app, website or customer support channel.
The “Stop, Think, Act” Principle
NPCI advises users to follow a simple three-step habit:
- Stop when a request is unexpected.
- Think before sharing information or making a payment.
- Act only after verifying the source.
About NPCI
NPCI is the umbrella organisation for retail payments and settlement systems in India. It was set up by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) and the Indian Banks’ Association (IBA). It operates as a “Not for Profit” company. Its products include UPI, RuPay, NACH, IMPS, NETC, AePS and e-RUPI. These systems have driven financial inclusion and put India’s digital payments ecosystem on the global map.
Learn more on the official NPCI website
