Google Pay, PhonePe, and Paytm Users: UPI Services to be Affected from April 1
Beginning April 1, new regulations will impact users utilizing UPI through platforms such as Google Pay, PhonePe, and Paytm. The National Payment Corporation of India (NPCI) has announced that mobile numbers associated with UPI will be removed from bank accounts if they have remained inactive for an extended period. Consequently, if your bank account is linked to an inactive mobile number, it may get deleted, leading to potential issues when attempting UPI transactions.
Reasons Behind the Decision
The NPCI’s decision arises from the increasing concerns over cybercrime. They noted that inactive mobile numbers can create technical complications within the banking sector and UPI systems. Should telecom companies assign these inactive numbers to new users, it heightens the risk of fraudulent activities. The government’s duty is to ensure the safety of its citizens and protect them from such vulnerabilities.
Maintaining an active mobile number linked to your bank account is essential for seamless UPI transactions. This number acts as a critical identifier during payments, guaranteeing that funds are dispatched to the correct recipient. An inactive mobile number that has been reassigned could result in failed transactions or erroneous payments.
Recommended Actions
If you possess a mobile number connected to your bank account that is currently inactive or has not been recharged in some time, it is advisable to verify with your telecom provider (such as Jio, Airtel, Vi, or BSNL) to ensure the number remains active under your name. If it is inactive, you should promptly reactivate it or update your bank account with a new mobile number.
To maintain accurate records, the NPCI has mandated that banks and UPI service providers review their records of inactive mobile numbers weekly. This initiative will ensure that any non-active numbers are purged from the banking system starting April 1.