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.
The 30-Minute Rule
- Screenshot every SMS, debit alert, WhatsApp chat, call log.
- Dial 1930 (Indian Cyber Crime helpline). Give them the UTR number from your debit SMS. The receiving bank gets a freeze alert in minutes.
- File at cybercrime.gov.in → “Financial Fraud / UPI Fraud”. Save the acknowledgement number.
- 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.
- File FIR within 24 hours.
What You Get If You Report Within 3 Days
- 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).
If You Are Past 7 Days
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).
Full Guide
For the complete recovery playbook, OTP-share scenarios, mule-account warnings, and 12 FAQ:
→ Read the full UPI Fraud Recovery guide