HT Bureau
GUWAHATI, Feb 17: The National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) has launched an awareness initiative to educate senior citizens on safe digital payment practices amid rising incidents of online fraud.
NPCI said digital payments have significantly improved daily life for elderly users by offering convenience in routine transactions such as grocery purchases, pharmacy payments and travel bookings.
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They also enhance independence by allowing seniors to manage expenses without relying on others, while reducing risks associated with carrying cash.
However, officials noted that increasing adoption of digital platforms has also led to a rise in fraud attempts targeting senior citizens, often through social engineering tactics.
Common frauds highlighted include so-called “digital arrest” scams where fraudsters impersonate law enforcement officials to extort money, fake investment schemes promising unusually high returns, phishing and vishing attempts seeking sensitive information, tech support scams involving remote access to devices, and fraudulent refund links designed to steal financial data.
NPCI advised senior citizens never to share confidential details such as UPI PINs, OTPs, passwords or bank account information, and to avoid clicking unknown links or installing applications suggested by strangers.
The agency also cautioned users to remain alert when faced with urgent messages about account blocking, KYC expiry or legal threats, noting that genuine institutions provide adequate time for verification and do not demand money over phone or video calls.
In case of suspected fraud, citizens have been urged to immediately contact the national cybercrime helpline at 1930, report the incident to their bank, and file complaints through the Department of Telecommunications portal.
Officials also encouraged seniors to consult family members or trusted individuals before acting on unfamiliar financial instructions.
NPCI emphasised that with awareness and careful verification, digital payments remain a safe and reliable system for everyday use.
