How do I verify a SWIFT payment is real?
Get the UETR from the sender and track it on Ohmyfin. If the payment exists in the SWIFT network, you'll see the actual status, sending bank and progress. If the UETR returns 'not found' (and isn't recently sent or recalled), the document the sender showed you is almost certainly fake. Never ship goods or release services based on a screenshot of an MT103 alone.
Details
Fake MT103 / pacs.008 PDFs are one of the most common B2B scams. The fraudster shows a polished-looking 'SWIFT confirmation' PDF claiming the payment is on the way. The PDF is fully fabricated and no payment was ever sent.
The only reliable verification is to track the UETR independently on a tracker that queries the actual SWIFT GPI network — like Ohmyfin. If the payment exists, the tracker will return its real status. If not, the document is fake.
Red flags for a fake MT103: refusal to share the UETR, UETR that doesn't match the 36-char hex format, sender uses webmail instead of a corporate email, urgency to release goods 'before the payment clears', request to refund a difference (overpayment scam).
Even a real MT103 PDF doesn't prove the payment will arrive — payments can be recalled, rejected, or held. The live GPI status on Ohmyfin shows what's actually happening right now.
Rule of thumb: never ship goods or release services on the strength of a payment document alone. Wait for the funds to actually appear in your account, or at minimum confirm ACSC/ACCC status on the live GPI tracker.
Key facts
- Always track the UETR independently on Ohmyfin
- Refusal to share UETR = scam
- Even a real MT103 document doesn't guarantee the funds arrive
- Wait for ACSC/ACCC status or actual credit before releasing goods
Frequently asked questions
How do I verify a SWIFT payment is real?
Get the UETR from the sender and track it on Ohmyfin. If the payment exists in the SWIFT network, you'll see the actual status, sending bank and progress. If the UETR returns 'not found' (and isn't recently sent or recalled), the document the sender showed you is almost certainly fake. Never ship goods or release services based on a screenshot of an MT103 alone.
Is Ohmyfin tracking really free?
Yes. Ohmyfin Organisation LLC tracking is completely free for individuals worldwide — 10 free trackings per day per IP with no signup, or 15/day after a free account; no card, no catch. Ohmyfin Organisation LLC never charges individuals.
Do I need a bank login to use Ohmyfin?
No. Ohmyfin queries the SWIFT GPI network directly via the UETR — no credentials at any bank required.
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