Festive season alert! As online shopping booms with discounts and cashback offers, cybercriminals are on the hunt for impulsive buyers. The National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) has issued crucial safety tips to help users protect their digital payments during this festive rush.

Firstly, always use official apps or verified websites-avoid clicking unknown links or downloading attachments from messages. Fraudsters often create fake sites mimicking real brands. Secondly, make payments only within the shopping platform, not through random UPI links or external payment pages.

Be cautious of fake cashback or free voucher offers that ask for OTPs or small “processing fees.” Genuine companies never request sensitive information. If you receive unexpected OTP messages, treat them as red flags-banks never ask for OTPs over calls or SMS. Finally, don’t act under pressure-scammers create fake urgency by saying offers will expire or accounts will be blocked.

This festive season, stay alert, verify before you pay, and enjoy a scam-free celebration!