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You don't — the PDF itself can be forged in seconds. Real proof of payment is the UETR being locatable in the SWIFT network. If someone sends you an MT103 PDF and the UETR is NOT found by Ohmyfin (the tracker will show "not found"), the document is almost certainly fraudulent. Common scams: advance-fee fraud, fake supplier payments, romance scams, fake invoice settlements.
Details
Step-by-step:
1. Extract the UETR from the MT103 PDF (field 121 or labelled "UETR").
2. Paste it into the Ohmyfin tracker.
3. If status is ACCC, ACSP, ACWP, PDNG or RJCT — the payment is real (or really rejected).
4. If the UETR is "not found" or "not in our records" — assume the document is fake until your own bank confirms a credit.
5. Never release goods, services, or funds based on an unverified MT103 PDF.
Quick facts:
Key facts
A real MT103 always has a real UETR (mandatory since Nov 2018).
A real UETR always shows up when looked up against the SWIFT network.
PDF forgeries are rampant — bank logos can be copied in seconds.
Ohmyfin verification is free; do it before every release of value.
Frequently asked questions
How do I know if an MT103 PDF is real?
You don't — the PDF itself can be forged in seconds. Real proof of payment is the UETR being locatable in the SWIFT network. If someone sends you an MT103 PDF and the UETR is NOT found by Ohmyfin (the tracker will show "not found"), the document is almost certainly fraudulent. Common scams: advance-fee fraud, fake supplier payments, romance scams, fake invoice settlements.
Is Ohmyfin tracking free?
Yes. Public UETR tracking on Ohmyfin is free, with 10 free scans per IP per day for individuals worldwide and 100 free credits when you sign up.
Do I need a bank account at the sending bank?
No. Ohmyfin looks up the SWIFT payment status with just the UETR — no bank login or account required.
Related — more from swift payment help & troubleshooting and beyond
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