How to Spot and Report Fake Digital Wallet Apps in India Using Portal Chakshu

Byadmin

In India, apps like PhonePe, Paytm, Google Pay, and others are part of daily life. People use them for paying bills, shopping, sending money, and more. It’s fast and convenient. But this growing use has also attracted fraudsters who want to cheat people using fake apps.

Fake digital wallet apps are not just a small problem anymore. Many people across the country have lost money to such frauds. These fake apps often look very similar to the real ones, and that’s why people get fooled.

The government has made Portal Chakshu for citizens to report such scams. It’s simple to use and helps take action against the fraudsters.

What Are Fake Digital Wallet Apps?

Fake digital wallet apps are designed to cheat users. They are not real payment apps, but they pretend to be. These apps may show fake payment screens, collect your private information, or even access your bank account without your permission.

Many scammers send these fake apps through SMS, WhatsApp, or fake websites. Once installed, they may steal your details or send your money to the wrong person.

Common Ways Scammers Trick People

Here are a few common tricks used by scammers to cheat people through fake payment apps:

  1. Fake Payment Confirmation: Someone might show you a fake payment screen from a look-alike app after buying something. Since the screen looks real, you may hand over the product thinking payment was successful, but no money is received.
  2. KYC or Account Update Messages: You may get messages saying, “Your wallet will be blocked unless KYC is updated.” These messages have links to fake apps or forms asking for bank details, OTPs, etc.
  3. Fake QR Codes: Scammers place fake QR codes in public places. When you scan and pay, the money goes to the wrong person. This often happens at parking lots, shops, or on walls with stickers.

  4. Job Offer or Cash Back Messages: Some users receive messages offering part-time work, free cashback, or rewards. These are often tricks to make you download fake apps or click links that steal your personal information.

Real-Life Fraud Cases

Fake wallet app scams have already affected many people:

  • In a case from Delhi, three men pretended to be government workers and sent messages about unpaid bills. They shared links that led to fake apps. Once installed, the app stole banking information and money.
  • In Kolkata, a woman walked into a jewellery shop and paid through what looked like a regular wallet app. She showed a fake success screen, and the shopkeeper handed over the item. Later, it was found that no payment was received.

Cases like these show how easily people can get fooled when fake apps look almost like the real ones.

How to Know If an App Is Fake?

Here are a few signs that an app might not be real:

  • The app is not found on official app stores like Google Play or Apple Store.
  • The app has spelling errors in the name or poor design.
  • It asks for unnecessary permissions like access to SMS or gallery.
  • There is no customer care option or help section in the app.
  • It does not save transaction history.

If you see any of these signs, it’s better to stay away and report the app.

How to Report a Fake App Using Portal Chakshu

Reporting fraud is easy. Just follow these steps:

  1. Go to Portal Chakshu: Use your phone or computer browser.
  2. Choose What You Want to Report: You can report suspicious calls, SMS, or WhatsApp messages.
  3. Enter the Details: Write the sender’s number, date and time, and what the message or call said.
  4. Attach Screenshots or Proof: If you have a screenshot of the message, app, or QR code, you can upload it.
  5. Verify Your Number: Enter your mobile number and confirm using the OTP.
  6. Click Submit: Your complaint will be sent to the cyber team for further action.

Even if no one replies back, your report will help stop future fraud.

Safety Tips to Avoid Payment Wallet Scams

  • Never download apps from links sent on SMS or WhatsApp.
  • Only use apps from official app stores.
  • Do not share your UPI PIN, OTP, or bank passwords with anyone.
  • Always double-check the payment screen before giving a product or service.
  • Keep your payment apps updated regularly.
  • Be careful when scanning QR codes in public places.

Final Thoughts

Digital wallets are useful and make life easy. But they also come with risks, especially when people don’t pay attention. Fake apps are being used across the country to cheat people of their money.

The good thing is that you don’t have to stay quiet if something wrong happens. You can raise your voice and report the fraud using Portal Chakshu. This platform is made for citizens who want to help stop online scams.

If you or someone you know comes across a fake wallet app, fake payment message, or scam call, report it right away. Don’t think your complaint won’t matter. Every report helps the government trace and stop the fraudsters.

Stay alert, share this information with friends and family, and always use Portal Chakshu to keep digital payments safe.

 

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