Scammed on UPI? Step-by-Step Recovery and Complaint Process

The first 30 minutes after a UPI scam decide whether you get the money back. Here is exactly what to do, in order.

1. Screenshot every SMS, debit alert, WhatsApp chat, call log.
2. Dial 1930 (Indian Cyber Crime helpline). Give them the UTR number from your debit SMS. The receiving bank gets a freeze alert in minutes.
3. File at cybercrime.gov.in → “Financial Fraud / UPI Fraud”. Save the acknowledgement number.
4. Email your bank in writing within 3 working days quoting RBI Circular DBR.No.Leg.BC.78/09.07.005/2017-18 dated 6 July 2017.
5. File FIR within 24 hours.

• Zero customer liability under RBI's Limited Liability circular.
• Bank must reverse the disputed entry within 10 working days if fraud is confirmed.
• Banking Ombudsman if bank refuses (free, online).

The bank's internal policy decides — usually full loss. You can still:

• File FIR + cybercrime portal complaint.
• Approach Banking Ombudsman at cms.rbi.org.in.
• NPCI ODR for UPI-specific disputes at dispute.npci.org.in.
• Consumer court (free for ≤ ₹50 lakh under CPA 2019).

For the complete recovery playbook, OTP-share scenarios, mule-account warnings, and 12 FAQ:

→ Read the full UPI Fraud Recovery guide

• Police powers + FIR registration rights
• File an RTI to track investigation status

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