With the festive season in full swing, markets are witnessing a surge in customers and business activity. However, concerns over alleged digital payment fraud have emerged, with a serious complaint reported from a Meena Bazaar operating near Block Chhak in Subarnapur district.
According to the complaint, a young man allegedly cheated a shopkeeper by showing a payment success screen on his mobile phone without the money being credited to the shopkeeper’s bank account.
As per the available information, the youth visited the Meena Bazaar and purchased some items. After making the purchase, he reportedly claimed to have paid through PhonePe, a UPI-based digital payment application. He also showed the shopkeeper a screen on his mobile phone indicating that the transaction had been successful.
However, when the shopkeeper checked his bank account, he found that the money had not been credited. This raised suspicions about the youth’s actions, prompting the bazaar owner to intervene.
The Meena Bazaar owner reportedly detained the youth and informed Sonpur police about the incident. Acting on the information, police arrived at the spot and questioned the accused.
During questioning, the youth allegedly confessed to the offence, according to the complaint. Police subsequently took him into custody for further investigation.
Shopkeepers Urged to Stay Alert
Following the incident, the Meena Bazaar owner advised other shopkeepers to remain vigilant against potential digital payment fraud, particularly during the busy festive season.
Merchants have been cautioned against handing over goods solely on the basis of a payment success screen displayed on a customer’s mobile phone. Instead, they should independently verify whether the money has actually been credited to their bank accounts before completing a transaction.
With digital payments becoming increasingly common in markets and temporary festive stalls, such incidents highlight the importance of verifying every UPI transaction.
Shopkeepers are advised to check their bank balances or payment notifications received through their own verified systems to avoid falling victim to fraudulent payment claims.
The incident serves as a reminder for traders to exercise caution during the festive rush, when increased customer footfall can make it more difficult to verify every transaction carefully.