Today, fraud doesn’t happen only because of technical hacking. Most fraud happens because people are tricked—through calls, messages, fake links, and emotional pressure.

This checklist will help you protect your bank account, UPI, cards, and digital wallets from fraud in real life, not just in theory.

1. Secure Your Mobile Phone First (Most Important Step)

Your mobile phone is the key to your money. If your phone is not secure, nothing else matters.

What You Must Do

• Always use a strong screen lock (PIN, fingerprint, or face lock)
• Never use simple PINs like 1234 or birth year
• Enable auto-lock within 30 seconds
• Do not give your phone unlocked to anyone

Why This Matters

Most UPI and banking fraud happens after someone gains temporary access to the phone.

2. Install Banking & UPI Apps Only from Official Stores

Fake apps look real and steal data silently.

Safety Checklist

• Download apps only from Google Play Store or Apple App Store
• Check:
  • Developer name
  • App reviews
  • Number of downloads
• Avoid APK files sent on WhatsApp or Telegram

If someone sends you an app link and says “install this to get refund”—it’s a scam.

3. Keep Banking Apps Separate from Daily-Use Apps

This is a simple but powerful habit.

Best Practice

• Use one phone for banking if possible
• Or at least:
  • Avoid games and unknown apps
  • Do not install mod or cracked apps

Unknown apps often contain malware that can:

• Read SMS
• Capture OTPs
• Record screen activity

4. Never Share OTP, PIN, or CVV (No Matter What)

This rule has no exception.

Remember This Clearly

• Bank employees never ask for OTP
• Customer care never asks for PIN
• Police never verify accounts via OTP
• Refunds do not require OTP sharing

If someone asks for OTP—even politely—they are a fraudster.

5. Understand How QR Code Fraud Works

Many people still believe scanning QR codes receives money.

Truth

• Scanning a QR code sends money
• You don’t need a QR code to receive money

Protect Yourself

• Never scan QR codes sent by strangers
• Don’t scan QR codes for refunds or prizes
• Verify payment inside the app, not via screenshots

6. Turn On Transaction Alerts for Everything

Alerts give you early warning.

Enable Alerts For

• SMS alerts
• Email alerts
• App notifications

Even if someone makes a small transaction, you’ll know instantly and can act fast.

7. Use Strong and Different Passwords

Using the same password everywhere is risky.

Password Safety Tips

• Use different passwords for:
  • Bank
  • Email
  • Wallet apps
• Avoid names, dates, or phone numbers
• Change passwords regularly

If your email is hacked, your bank account is next.

8. Be Careful with Public Wi-Fi

Public Wi-Fi is dangerous for banking.

Never Use Public Wi-Fi For

• Online banking
• UPI transactions
• Logging into wallet apps

If necessary:

• Use mobile data
• Or a trusted VPN

9. Don’t Trust Urgent Calls or Messages

Fraudsters create panic so you don’t think.

Common Pressure Lines

• “Your account will be blocked today”
• “This is urgent”
• “Don’t tell anyone”
• “Immediate action required”

Always pause. A real bank never pressures customers.

10. Google Customer Care Numbers Carefully

Fake customer care numbers appear in search results.

Safe Method

• Use customer care numbers from:
  • Official bank website
  • Bank mobile app
• Never trust numbers from:
  • Ads
  • Random websites

Many frauds start with one wrong phone call.

11. Avoid Remote Access Apps Completely

Apps like:

• AnyDesk
• TeamViewer
• Quick Support

Important Truth

No bank or company will ask you to install these apps.

Once installed, fraudsters can:

• Control your phone
• See OTPs
• Transfer money

Uninstall immediately if installed accidentally.

12. Check Bank Statements Regularly

Small unknown transactions are warning signs.

What to Look For

• Unknown charges
• Small test transactions
• Repeated failed attempts

If you notice anything suspicious:

• Call bank immediately
• Block cards or accounts

13. Educate Family Members (Especially Elders & Children)

Many frauds happen because:

• Elders trust callers easily
• Children click links without understanding

Explain to them:

• Never share OTP
• Never scan unknown QR
• Always ask before sending money

Awareness saves money.

14. What to Do If You Suspect Fraud

If something feels wrong:

1. Stop using the app immediately
2. Call your bank or wallet support
3. Call 1930 cyber crime helpline
4. Report at cybercrime.gov.in
5. Save all screenshots and messages

Speed increases recovery chances.

Final Thoughts

Online banking is safe only if you use it wisely.

Fraudsters don’t break systems—they break trust.

Follow this checklist not once, but as a habit. Share it with your family and friends. One shared article can save someone’s lifetime savings.