If you use online payment, then be careful. Fake payment apps are getting smarter day by day and look like real apps. These apps are not only real apps in user interface and design, but can also deceive you with fake notifications and the sound of transactions. In such a situation, you must remain alert and keep yourself and your business safe by keeping some simple things in mind.

How do fake payment apps work?

Fake payment apps look like real apps. Their color, design, and layout are almost the same. The process of transaction in them also looks the same, which makes it difficult to identify them at first glance. Some apps even play fake beeps or notification sound of payment so that the other person feels that the payment has been made. Such apps especially target shopkeepers, where cheating is done by taking advantage of haste and crowds.

Easy ways to avoid fake payment apps

Don't just trust the screenshot: Always check the transaction history of your bank account or the real payment app once the payment is confirmed.

Catch the mistakes: Fake apps often have some subtle mistakes like wrong transaction ID, unclear text, or different style notifications.

Avoid haste: If someone tries to take the goods quickly after making the payment and does not give time for verification, then be careful.

Be alert of unknown apps: If someone is using a new or unknown payment app, then cross-check it.

Important alert for shopkeepers

Shopkeepers are falling prey to fake apps the most.

Nowadays shopkeepers are falling prey to these fake apps the most. In such a situation, it is important to train the staff and create a verification process.

Train the staff: Tell your staff that they have to give the product only after the payment is confirmed.

Verification required: Wait until you receive a smart speaker or SMS alert from apps like PhonePe. Fake apps cannot trigger these alerts.

Report suspicious cases: If someone has made a fake payment or the app seems fake, report it immediately.

PhonePe is taking action against fake apps to help users
PhonePe is continuously taking action against such fake apps. The company has also got the 'John Doe' order passed from the Madras High Court so that if any fake app is seen on social media, it can be removed.

If you have been a victim of any fake payment or fraud related to PhonePe, then immediately contact these numbers:

Call 080-68727374 or 022-68727374.
Report on cybercrime.gov.in.
Call the cyber helpline number 1930.

Disclaimer: This content has been sourced and edited from NDTV India. While we have made modifications for clarity and presentation, the original content belongs to its respective authors and website. We do not claim ownership of the content.