OLX/Quikr Seller Refund QR Code Trap

How OLX/Quikr Seller Refund QR Code Trap Works

Overview: A dangerous new scam is targeting Indians looking to buy used items on classified sites like OLX and Quikr. Fraudsters act as sellers, offering popular goods at attractively low prices. Once you pay by UPI for the purchase, the scammer claims there was a mistake—either you paid to the wrong account or sent extra money. They then offer to 'refund' the difference but trick you into scanning a QR code that actually withdraws money from your account. This scam is particularly harmful as it preys on those looking for bargains, putting your entire UPI-linked bank balance at risk. How It Works: You find an appealing product priced far below market value and contact the seller. After agreeing to a deal, you are asked to transfer money via UPI for fast confirmation and promised quick delivery. Once you pay, the scammer claims an issue—"payment received in error,” “excess payment," or “wrong account.” The fraudster then sends you a QR code or payment link, urging you to scan and enter your UPI PIN in your app to get your 'refund.' Instead of receiving money, you end up authorising an outgoing payment. The scammer may insist you enter your PIN multiple times, citing 'transaction failure.' India Angle: With the rise of UPI and mobile payments, millions of Indians from metros to small cities are at risk. This scam often involves listings for electronic gadgets, bikes, or even adult/escort services disguised as regular ads. Young adults, college students, and bargain hunters are regular targets, especially those unfamiliar with payment app security. WhatsApp and Telegram are used for post-negotiation contact, and Hindi or regional language is often used to build rapport. Real Examples: - “Thanks for payment! But it came in twice, so I have to reverse the extra amount to you. Just scan this QR on Google Pay and enter your PIN.” - “Payment went to my wrong account. For refund, our company uses this QR code—you’ll get money instantly.” Red Flags: 1. Offers goods at much lower than average market prices, especially high-demand items. 2. Insists on payment only by UPI, discourages cash or COD. 3. Post-payment, the seller pushes you to scan QR codes for refund. 4. Generic profile photo, missing personal information, or vague location details. 5. Rushes the process, asking you to complete steps quickly without verification. Protective Measures: Only pay after meeting the seller in person and verifying the product. Never scan a QR code or enter your UPI PIN for incoming payments. Use in-app chat only, never continue on WhatsApp with strangers. Always check payment status directly in your UPI/bank app, not on screenshots. If unsure, consult your bank or UPI helpline before acting. If Victimised: Contact 1930 and cybercrime.gov.in immediately. Alert your bank to block your account and UPI linkage to limit further loss. If high-value fraud occurred, lodge a written complaint at your local police station and retain all proof (messages, QR codes, transaction slips). Related Scams: Courier Phishing (pretending to be logistics partners extracting payment for fake delivery), Fake Job Offer Registration Fee scams.

Visual Intelligence:

BharatSecure's AI has identified this as a used in scams targeting Indian users.

Who Does OLX/Quikr Seller Refund QR Code Trap Target?

General public across India

Red Flags — How to Identify OLX/Quikr Seller Refund QR Code Trap

• Items offered at extremely low prices compared to market.
• Sellers push UPI payment methods and refuse cash/COD.
• Insist on QR scan and UPI PIN entry for refunds/adjustments.
• Unverified seller profiles with unclear identity.
• Rushes you to act before you can verify payment.

What To Do If You Encounter OLX/Quikr Seller Refund QR Code Trap

1. Do not click any links or share personal information
2. Block and report the sender immediately
3. Report at cybercrime.gov.in or call 1930
4. Inform your bank if financial details were shared

How to Report OLX/Quikr Seller Refund QR Code Trap in India

• Call 1930 — National Cyber Crime Helpline (24x7)
• File a complaint at cybercrime.gov.in
• Contact your bank immediately if money was lost
• Call RBI helpline: 14440 for banking fraud

Frequently Asked Questions

What is OLX/Quikr Seller Refund QR Code Trap?

Overview: A dangerous new scam is targeting Indians looking to buy used items on classified sites like OLX and Quikr. Fraudsters act as sellers, offering popular goods at attractively low prices. Once you pay by UPI for the purchase, the scammer claims there was a mistake—either you paid to the wrong account or sent extra money. They then offer to 'refund' the difference but trick you into scanning a QR code that actually withdraws money from your account. This scam is particularly harmful as it

How does OLX/Quikr Seller Refund QR Code Trap work?

Overview: A dangerous new scam is targeting Indians looking to buy used items on classified sites like OLX and Quikr. Fraudsters act as sellers, offering popular goods at attractively low prices. Once you pay by UPI for the purchase, the scammer claims there was a mistake—either you paid to the wrong account or sent extra money. They then offer to 'refund' the difference but trick you into scannin

How to protect yourself from OLX/Quikr Seller Refund QR Code Trap?

Do not click any links or share personal information Block and report the sender immediately Report at cybercrime.gov.in or call 1930 Inform your bank if financial details were shared

How to report OLX/Quikr Seller Refund QR Code Trap in India?

Report to cybercrime.gov.in or call 1930 (National Cyber Crime Helpline). You can also contact your local police station's cyber cell.

Verify Any Suspicious Message

Check any suspicious message, link, or call for free at bharatsecure.app. BharatSecure uses AI to detect scams in real-time and protect Indian users.