‘I Stopped Using Google Pay’: Sania Mirza’s Sister Reveals Why She Deleted UPI Apps

Sania Mirza

In a surprising revelation, Anam Mirza, sister of tennis star Sania Mirza, recently announced that she has stopped using digital payment apps like Google Pay, PhonePe, and Paytm. Her decision has sparked discussions about privacy, security, and financial autonomy in the age of UPI-driven transactions.

This blog explores:
✔ Why Anam Mirza quit UPI apps
✔ Risks of digital payment platforms
✔ Alternatives she recommends
✔ Expert opinions on UPI safety

Anam Mirza’s Statement: Key Reasons for Quitting UPI

On June 25, 2025, Anam shared a detailed Instagram post explaining her decision:

“After a fraudulent transaction scare, I’ve deleted all UPI apps. The convenience isn’t worth the anxiety of hacks or data misuse.”

Her Main Concerns:

  1. Fraud & Scams
    • Nearly lost ₹15,000 to a QR code phishing scam.
    • No immediate bank support despite reporting.
  2. Privacy Issues
    • Apps track spending habits, location, and contacts.
    • Data shared with third parties (as per some privacy policies).
  3. Over-Dependence on Tech
    • Prefers cash and card payments for better control.

UPI Fraud in India: How Big Is the Problem?

Statistic Data (2024-25)
UPI Fraud Cases Reported Over 95,000 (NPCI)
Money Lost to Scams ₹1,200+ Crores
Common Fraud Types QR Code Scams, Fake Customer Care, SIM Swap

Most Targeted Groups:

  • Senior citizens (45%)
  • Small business owners (30%)
  • Young professionals (25%)

(Source: National Cyber Crime Portal)

Anam’s Alternatives to UPI

She now uses:
Credit/Debit Cards (with OTP security)
Cash Transactions for small purchases
Bank Direct Transfers (NEFT/IMPS) for large payments

“Physical money doesn’t get hacked,” she remarked.

Expert Views: Is Quitting UPI the Solution?

1. Cybersecurity Analysts Say:

  • “UPI is safe if users enable 2FA and avoid shady links.” – Kiran Shetty (CyberPeace Foundation)
  • “Complete avoidance isn’t practical, but caution is key.”

2. Bank Officials Advise:

  • Set UPI transaction limits.
  • Use separate bank accounts for UPI.

How to Use UPI Safely? (If You Don’t Want to Quit)

  1. Never Share UPI PIN/SMS OTPs.
  2. Verify Recipient Names before paying.
  3. Disable Autosave of payment cards in apps.

Conclusion: Should You Follow Anam’s Lead?

While UPI offers speed and convenience, Anam Mirza’s experience highlights legitimate risks. Evaluate your usage—if fraud anxiety outweighs benefits, her hybrid (cash + cards) approach may help.

Would you quit UPI? Share your thoughts below!

Key Takeaways

  • Anam Mirza left UPI due to fraud and privacy fears.
  • 95K+ UPI scams reported yearly in India.
  • Safety tips: 2FA, no PIN sharing, transaction alerts.
  • Alternatives: Cards, cash, NEFT.

#UPI #DigitalPayments #AnamMirza #CyberSafety 

Author Profile
Author (Intern) at Bitlance Tech Hub Private Limited | [email protected]

Sourashis Chanda brings readers their unique perspective on Business, Economy, Health and Fitness. With a background in Health and Physical Fitness of 2years, I am dedicated to exploring [what they aim to achieve with their writing, on the sustainable Economy of the country, various pro tips about business, latest goverment news, with some tips in health are and Fitness.

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