Government Launches Fraud Alert for Digital Payments

Surge in Online and Banking Frauds

With the rapid proliferation of digital payment methods, instances of online and banking fraud have surged alarmingly in the country. Data spanning the past three years reveals that 915 cases of online fraud and 470 cases of bank fraud were reported within the state. A significant number of victims fell prey after making payments through deceptive links.

Government Introduces Financial Fraud Risk Indicator

To combat this escalating threat and mitigate financial losses to the public, the government has initiated a new real-time alert system named the Financial Fraud Risk Indicator. Designed to shield users from fraudulent transactions, this system proactively warns users before they complete payments via suspicious numbers or links.

Seamless Integration with Communication and Banking Platforms

The alert system will be directly connected to the Sanchar Sathi portal and integrated with leading banking channels and prominent UPI-based payment applications. Every number, UPI ID, or link flagged for fraudulent activity will be categorized under low, medium, or high risk. When users attempt transactions involving these risky entities, an automatic alert will instantly appear on their device screens. Importantly, this security feature will not require users to download any additional apps as it operates silently in the background, seamlessly linking with payment and banking platforms.

A Three-Tiered Fraud Prevention Strategy

This advanced fraud detection system operates on three crucial levels:

1. High-Risk Alerts: For transactions flagged as high or very high risk, users receive an immediate warning to halt the payment, preventing potential losses.
2. Medium-Risk Delay: Transactions categorized as medium risk are temporarily paused, prompting users to reconfirm before proceeding, thereby reducing accidental or impulsive payments.
3. Real-Time Backend Notifications: Simultaneously, the system sends alerts to banks, network providers, and cybercrime agencies, enabling swift follow-up investigations.

These coordinated measures collectively establish a robust defense against digital payment fraud.

Continuous Updates Powered by Public Participation

The system’s effectiveness hinges on continuous updates sourced from public reports submitted via the Sanchar Saathi portal. As users report suspicious links and numbers, this data feeds into a machine learning-driven database that accelerates the detection of fraudulent patterns. Officials highlight that this adaptive approach will enhance the system’s intelligence over time, enabling it to quickly recognize emerging fraud tactics.

Widespread Implementation Across Digital Payment Platforms

Currently, the Financial Fraud Risk Indicator is being rolled out across all major UPI-based payment applications such as Google Pay, PhonePe, and Paytm. Plans are underway to extend its integration into internet banking and digital wallet services, ensuring comprehensive protection for digital transactions nationwide.

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Sorit Chaudhary

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