Seven UPI habits that keep your money safe

UPI moves money in seconds, which is also why mistakes are hard to undo. A few habits remove most of the risk.

1. PIN is for paying only. If a screen asks for your PIN, money will leave your account. Never enter it to "receive".
2. Read before you approve. The payee name and amount on the confirmation screen are what count, not the chat.
3. Scan QR codes only to pay. A QR code someone sends you "to receive money" is a payment request in disguise.
4. Lock the app with a screen lock or biometric, and keep your phone's OS and apps updated.
5. Set sensible limits and keep alerts on, so an unusual debit is noticed in minutes.
6. Use only official apps from the store, and never share your screen with a "support agent".
7. Verify numbers. Search for customer-care numbers on the official app or website, not in a search ad or a social post.

Sent money to the wrong person? Contact your bank and the UPI app's support quickly, and call 1930 for fraud.