How to Stay Safe From AEPS Scam: You Should Know About It
How to Stay Safe From AEPS Scam: This article is crucial for you if you use AEPS banking to withdraw cash from your bank. Unauthorized people can steal money from your bank account by using your Aadhaar information and biometrics in the AEPS Scam, also known as Aadhaar Enabled Payment System Fraud.
AEPS Scam is a type of financial scam that frauds people into transferring money from their bank accounts. The Aadhaar Enabled Payment System (AEPS), a safe method of accessing your bank account using your Aadhaar card and fingerprint, must be tricked or compromised.
You run the danger of losing your hard-earned money when thieves use your Aadhaar information and biometric data to make illegal transactions, frequently with the assistance of dishonest agents. In this post, we’ll discuss how to avoid becoming a victim of AEPS fraud and what to do if you think something is fishy. Let’s check How to Stay Safe From AEPS Scam.
What is AEPS Scam?
AEPS Scam is a type of financial Scam that involves the unauthorized use of the Aadhaar Enabled Payment System (AEPS) to steal money from people’s bank accounts.
What is AEPS?
AEPS is a system that allows people to withdraw cash, transfer money, and check their account balance using their Aadhaar card and fingerprint.
How Do Criminals Commit AEPS Scam?
Criminals cleverly collect a person’s Aadhaar Number and Biometric Copy or cloned fingerprints through various methods, such as using silicone molds or 3D printers. Once they have a person’s Aadhaar number and fingerprint, they can use them to make AEPS transactions and steal money from the person’s bank account.
Who Commits AEPS Scam?
AEPS fraud can also be committed by corrupt AEPS agents. AEPS agents are people who are authorized to provide AEPS services. Some corrupt AEPS agents may collude with Scamers to steal money from people’s bank accounts. For example, a corrupt AEPS agent may help a Scamer withdraw money from a person’s bank account using a cloned fingerprint.
How to Protect Yourself From AEPS Scam
1. Lock and Unlock Your Biometric using mAadhaar Application
- Install the mAadhaar Application from Playstore.
- Open the mAadhaar app and log in with your Aadhaar number and PIN.
- Go to Biometric Lock/Unlock located at the bottom.
- Tap on “Biometric Lock” and click on “Lock Biometric.” Remember to unlock it only when necessary.
2. Use Aadhaar Virtual ID
- Consider using an Aadhaar Virtual ID (VID) as an alternative to your Aadhaar Number. You can generate a VID online through the UIDAI website, mAadhaar app, or by sending an SMS to 1947.
3. Delink Aadhaar from DBT
- If possible, delink your Aadhaar from Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) to minimize the exposure of your Aadhaar information.
4. Keep Your Mobile Number Updated
- Ensure your current mobile number is updated in your bank account for receiving SMS updates and transaction alerts.
5. Provide Mobile Number During AEPS Transactions
- Always provide your mobile number during AEPS transactions to receive transaction status updates via SMS.
6. Collect Transaction Slips
- Always collect transaction slips after AEPS transactions as a record of your transaction.
7. Check the Fingerprint Device
- Before using the fingerprint device, carefully inspect it for any signs of tampering, such as glue residue, cellophane tape, or scratches on the sensor.
8. Use Authorized Agents
- Only use AEPS services from authorized agents and provide your biometrics in front of trusted individuals.
How to Lock and Unlock Biometric using mAadhaar Application?
- Install the mAadhaar Application from Playstore.
- Open the mAadhaar app and log in with your Aadhaar number and PIN.
- Go to Biometric Lock/Unlock located at the bottom.
- Tap on “Biometric Lock” and click on “Lock Biometric.” To unlock, tap on “Unlock Biometric.”
How to Get Aadhaar Virtual ID (VID)?
You can obtain an Aadhaar Virtual ID (VID) through three methods:
Online:
- Go to the UIDAI website (https://myaadhaar.uidai.gov.in/).
- Click on “Generate Virtual ID” under the “Online Services” section.
- Enter your Aadhaar number and CAPTCHA code.
- Click on “Generate VID.” You will receive your VID via SMS.
mAadhaar app:
- Open the mAadhaar app and log in with your Aadhaar number and PIN.
- Tap on “Generate Virtual ID” under the “My Aadhaar” section.
- Enter your Aadhaar number and CAPTCHA code.
- Click on “Generate VID.” You will receive your VID via SMS.
SMS:
- Send an SMS to 1947 in the following format: GVID .
- For example, if your Aadhaar number is 123456789012, send: GVID 9012. You will receive your VID via SMS.
How to Check Fingerprint Device?
Before using the fingerprint device, look for any obvious signs of tampering, such as glue residue, cellophane tape, or scratches on the sensor.
What to Do If You Are an AEPS Scam Victim
If you suspect that you are a victim of AEPS fraud, take the following steps:
- Check your SMS messages for transaction details, including the AEPS operator’s name and address, to trace the fraud’s origin.
- If you did not make the transaction, immediately report the incident to the police, the Cyber Crime division, your bank branch, and NPCI.
Where to File Complaints for AEPS Fraud
You can report AEPS Scam to the following authorities:
- Your bank: Contact your bank immediately if you suspect an AEPS Scam. They can investigate and protect your account.
- The police: File a police complaint to initiate an investigation into the Scam.
- National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI): Report AEPS Scam to NPCI through their helpline or website, providing essential information like your name, address, incident details, and any possible witnesses or suspects.
When reporting AEPS Scam, ensure you provide complete and accurate information to aid in the investigation and resolution of the case.
Final Talk
AEPS is a very popular method for withdrawing cash from anywhere, anytime. However, it’s crucial to use it securely to protect your financial assets. By following the safety measures outlined in this post, such as locking your biometrics, using a Virtual ID, and staying vigilant during transactions, you can enjoy the convenience of AEPS while minimizing the risk of falling victim to a Scam. Remember, your financial security is in your hands, and staying informed and cautious is the key to a safe and hassle-free banking experience. Please share this post with your friends and family to aware them of the scheme and How to Stay Safe From the AEPS Scam.
