UPI payments, a convenient and widely used method in India, are now even more secure. With the introduction of biometric authentication, UPI payments can be made using a fingerprint or Face ID, eliminating the need to remember a PIN.
UPI payments have become an indispensable part of digital transactions in India, catering to a vast user base. The National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) oversees UPI.
It reports that billions of transactions are processed on various UPI platforms nationwide, making UPI a part of millions’ everyday lives.
Biometric authentication in development: NPCI’s plan to integrate biometric authentication, such as Face ID or fingerprint sensors, into the UPI system is a significant step towards enhancing the security of UPI payments.
This decision follows the RBI’s proposal to explore alternative methods for Additional Factor Authentication (AFA), including biometric options. It is expected to provide a more secure digital transaction experience.
PIN, Biometrics: Currently, entering the PIN accurately is necessary for UPI payments. However, specific UPI Lite platforms, which are a simplified version of regular UPI platforms, offer PIN-free methods for payments below Rs. 500.
NPCI plans to introduce biometric authentication for UPI payments soon. Users are initially expected to have PIN-based and biometric authentication methods available, providing multiple options for securing transactions.
Reduced cyber fraud: Biometric authentication, such as fingerprint or Face ID, is anticipated to decrease cyber fraud significantly.
Introducing biometric verification for UPI payments is a significant step in reducing fraud. Biometric data is unique to each individual, making it extremely difficult for fraudsters to replicate it.
However, it is still being determined when this feature will be available or which UPI apps will support it. As technology evolves, consumers will likely have the option to choose between PIN or biometrics on popular platforms like Google Pay, Phone Pay, Amazon Pay, and Paytm.