The National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) has announced changes to the UPI regulation that will enhance security features and guarantee smooth transaction processing. These changes will come into effect on April 1, 2025, affecting millions of UPI users in India.
What Changes Are Being Made to UPI Rules?
According to the new protocol, telecom companies can reassign a new user to the mobile numbers if they are not used for more than 90 days. This means:
- Your UPI services will cease if your registered mobile number is deactivated.
- Your UPI ID associated with the old number will be invalidated and therefore block all transactions.
Since reducing the ability to create UPI accounts with fake identities would greatly reduce frauds, the NPCI wants to make it such that only active, fully verified users enjoy access to UPI services.
This decision should curb all fraudulent activities associated with such large-scale inactive accounts, which have been seen over the last few years.
What Should UPI Users Do Right Now?
General info calls for potential action to avoid problems in UPI payments.
Update Your Mobile Number with Your Bank
- If you have changed your number recently, then immediately inform your bank so that the new number can be linked to UPI.
- Ensure that your mobile number, which is registered for UUPI, is valid so your services are enabled without interruptions.
Use the Registered Number Regularly.
- Do not let the SIM card stay inactive for a long time. Use it at least once every 90 days to avoid deactivation of your registered number.
Check the UPI App & Bank Records Every Week.
- The number being used to access banks and UPI apps will now be verified every week for activity and/or any changes.
- Be proactive to cross-check if your details tally with your banking app.
More Changes in UPI Payments
With Fraud Control in Mind, the “Collect Payment” option moving forward would now be limited to verified merchants only involved in a transaction of up to ₹2,000 on an individual basis.
Only a Strictly Authorized Merchant Will be Able to Ask for Payment Through UPI. This Will Help Minimize Scams.
