The National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) announced new guidelines for numeric UPI ID solutions, set to take effect from April 1. The updated framework aims to improve the user experience and enhance security in number-based UPI transactions.
Under the revised norms, all UPI member banks, third-party applications, and UPI service providers must adhere to these mandatory guidelines. A key change includes the deactivation of UPI IDs linked to mobile numbers that have been inactive for an extended period, reported IANS.
This means users whose registered mobile numbers are deemed inactive by their banks will lose access to UPI services unless they update their details.
Impact on UPI Users and Mobile Number Inactivity
Users relying on UPI services must ensure that their registered mobile number remains active. If a number linked to a UPI ID is inactive for a prolonged duration, it will automatically be unlinked, making UPI transactions impossible.
Maintaining updated records with the correct mobile number is crucial to avoid disruptions. The policy aligns with the Department of Telecom’s (DoT) existing rules, which allow telecom providers to reassign deactivated mobile numbers to new users after a 90-day disconnection period. Numbers that are no longer in use for calls, messages, or data services are classified as ‘recycled’ or ‘churned’ numbers and may be reassigned by telecom operators.
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Bank Verification and Opt-in Requirement for Numeric UPI IDs
As part of the new regulations, a user’s bank-verified mobile number will serve as the primary identifier for their numeric UPI ID. Additionally, banks and UPI service providers must update their mobile number records on a weekly basis to prevent issues arising from reassigned numbers.
To further safeguard user interests, applications will require explicit consent before assigning numeric UPI IDs. Users will be required to opt in manually, as the default setting remains opted out.
In cases where NPCI verification encounters delays, UPI apps may implement temporary solutions to resolve numeric UPI ID issues internally. However, such incidents must be documented and reported to NPCI monthly for review and compliance monitoring.
