How the UPI Jumped Deposit Scam Works: Monica Malik's Safety Guide for Users

Finance influencer Monica Malik shares an alarming rise in a fresh digital fraud technique now circulating across Karnataka and gradually making its way to other states, the ‘Jumped Deposit Scam.' As UPI payments have become the most common mode of digital transactions, scammers have evolved their tactics to prey on curiosity, trust, and quick reactions. This new scam appears harmless at first glance but is designed to trigger users into revealing their UPI PIN, opening the door to unauthorized withdrawals.

How the Scam Works:

The ‘Jumped Deposit Scam' starts with a small, unexpected credit of a few rupees into the victim's UPI-linked bank account. The transfer appears genuine, leading users to wonder who sent the money and why. Immediately after the deposit, the user receives a message or call claiming the credit was made “by mistake” and asking them to “return the amount.”

However, the trick lies in what comes next. Scammers guide the victim into “sending the money back” and cleverly nudge them into entering their UPI PIN. Since a UPI PIN is only required for sending money, not receiving it, this step gives scammers full access to authenticate fraudulent debits from the victim's bank account.

Why Users Fall for It:

This scam thrives on psychological engineering, curiosity, politeness, and urgency. The sudden deposit creates confusion, and the follow‑up request adds pressure. Many users, wanting to correct the “mistake,” unknowingly authorize scammers to withdraw money in multiple transactions.

Another reason this scam works is that people often misunderstand how UPI functions. A UPI PIN is never required to view, confirm, or receive money, only to send or approve payments. This gap in awareness becomes the scammer's biggest advantage.

How to Stay Protected:

Monica Malik emphasizes basic but crucial safety rules:

Never enter your UPI PIN unless you are initiating a payment.

Ignore and block unknown callers requesting refunds for “mistaken deposits.”

Report suspicious activity to your bank and the cybercrime portal immediately.

Staying alert and educating family members can help prevent financial losses and keep your digital transactions secure.

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