Almost all scams today follow the same pattern. They begin with something that feels routine, a message, a call, or a friendly offer. That’s why, even if you’re careful, it’s surprisingly easy to fall for them. Here’s a simple guide on what you can do to stay safe.

Scammers try to push you into reacting instead of thinking. Sometimes it’s urgency: your account will be blocked, your KYC is expiring, or something must be fixed immediately.

Sometimes it’s fear: tax notices, legal trouble, penalties. And sometimes it’s excitement: guaranteed profits, exclusive access, instant loans, or rewards.

Once emotion takes over, verification stops. You don’t double-check the number. You don’t question the link. You don’t pause before sharing details. That small gap is what scammers exploit.

• You can verify intermediaries here: https://sebi.gov.in/intermediaries.html
• And check verified apps here: https://investor.sebi.gov.in/Investor-support.html
   
   

Zerodha, or any genuine financial entity, will never ask you to transfer money to a personal or random bank account.

• Don’t trust unsolicited messages offering investment tips, jobs, or instant loans.
• Avoid clicking links or downloading apps shared over SMS, WhatsApp, email, or DMs. Type the official website manually instead.

Avoid joining groups that promise “guaranteed” or “sure-shot” returns. If you’re added to one, report and block it. You can also limit who can add you to WhatsApp groups. Here’s how to change that setting. 

Always check the recipient’s name carefully before approving a UPI transfer.

Whenever you add money to your Zerodha account via UPI, payment requests will only come from these official handles.

SEBI has also launched a tool called SEBI Check, which lets you verify UPI handles or bank account numbers before transferring money to any broker or intermediary.

If you receive any communication from us, you can verify our email addresses here. 
And phone numbers in case you receive a call here.

Never share these with anyone – OTPs sent to your phone – UPI PINs – Login passwords for trading or banking apps – PAN, Aadhaar, or KYC documents, unless you’re certain it’s an official, verified platform – Install apps only from verified app stores. Check the developer name and avoid apps that ask for unnecessary permissions.

No genuine broker, bank, or financial services platform will ask for these over chat, call, email, or DMs.