Big Changes Coming to UPI – What You Need to Know
For millions of Unified Payments Interface (UPI) users, a crucial deadline is approaching. If your mobile number linked to your bank account has been inactive for a long time, you must update it immediately. From April 1, 2025, users with inactive or unverified mobile numbers will no longer be able to use UPI services. This move is aimed at preventing fraud and enhancing digital payment security.
The National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) has instructed all banks and payment service providers (PSPs) to update their databases before March 31. Under this directive, inactive mobile numbers will be removed from the UPI network to ensure secure and reliable transactions.
NPCI’s New Rule: A Major Step to Prevent Fraud
The new Mobile Number Revocation List (MNRL) will be implemented via the Digital Intelligence Platform (DIP). This system will help identify and eliminate inactive or changed mobile numbers to mitigate the risks of fraud and unauthorized access. Banks and UPI service providers like Google Pay, PhonePe, and Paytm are mandated to comply with this rule.
Key Updates for UPI Users:
- Inactive mobile numbers linked to UPI accounts will be removed from the system.
- Users who have changed their numbers without updating them with their bank may lose UPI access.
- Those who have deactivated their numbers must update their bank details immediately.
- Banks and PSPs must update mobile records at least once a week.
- The rule applies to all banks and UPI-enabled apps across India.
Who Will Be Affected?
If you fall under any of the following categories, you need to take action immediately:
1. Users Who Have Changed Their Mobile Number
If you have changed your mobile number and have not updated it with your bank or UPI service provider, you will lose access to UPI payments from April 1.
2. Users with Inactive or Deactivated Numbers
Mobile numbers that have not been used for calls, SMS, or any digital service for an extended period will be automatically removed from the UPI system.
3. Users with Outdated Bank Records
If your bank does not have an active and updated mobile number linked to your UPI ID, you may face service disruptions.
Mandatory Weekly Mobile Number Updates for Banks and UPI Apps
To ensure up-to-date records, NPCI has mandated all banks and UPI apps to update mobile number records weekly. This will be done through the MNRL system on the DIP platform, allowing banks to detect inactive numbers and remove them from the UPI network.
UPI service providers such as Google Pay, PhonePe, and Paytm must also comply with this rule, ensuring that inactive mobile numbers are promptly removed from their platforms.
How to Avoid Losing UPI Access
To prevent UPI disruptions, follow these essential steps:
1. Check and Activate Your Mobile Number
Ensure that the mobile number linked to your bank account is active and in use. If your number has been inactive for a long time, activate it immediately by making a call, sending an SMS, or using mobile data.
2. Update Your Mobile Number with the Bank
If you have changed your mobile number, visit your bank branch or use net banking to update your details. Most banks also offer mobile banking apps that allow seamless mobile number updates.
3. Get a New Number Before April 1 (If Needed)
If your mobile number has been permanently deactivated, apply for a new SIM card and update your number with your bank before March 31 to avoid UPI restrictions.
4. Verify Your UPI Account
Login to your UPI app (Google Pay, PhonePe, Paytm, BHIM, etc.) and check if your registered mobile number is correct and active. If needed, update it in the app settings.
5. Contact Your Bank for Confirmation
To ensure that your mobile number is correctly linked to your account, contact your bank’s customer service and request confirmation.
Impact on Digital Payments and UPI Users
This update is a significant step towards improving digital payment security. By eliminating inactive numbers from the UPI ecosystem, NPCI aims to reduce fraud, unauthorized transactions, and cyber risks. This move is expected to strengthen UPI’s position as one of the most secure and efficient digital payment systems worldwide.
How This Rule Will Benefit Users:
✔️ Enhanced security against fraud and unauthorized transactions ✔️ Elimination of outdated and unused mobile numbers ✔️ Faster and more reliable UPI transactions ✔️ Improved user experience with updated databases ✔️ Stronger digital payment ecosystem in India
Final Reminder: Update Your Mobile Number Before March 31
To continue using UPI services seamlessly, ensure your mobile number is active and updated with your bank. Act before March 31 to avoid disruptions in your digital transactions.
Stay updated and take the necessary steps to keep your UPI account secure and functional!
