If your old mobile number is linked to your UPI, it's time to remove it. The National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) has introduced a new feature to simplify the unlinking of UPI IDs associated with old or inactive mobile numbers. This will enhance the security of digital payments. This NPCI decision will come into effect on March 31, 2025.
New Rule Effective March 31st
Under this new rule, all banks and Payment Service Providers (PSPs) will be required to update their databases at least once a week. This will help prevent UPI transactions linked to old, inactive, or recycled mobile numbers. This NPCI initiative will help curb fraudulent transactions and enhance user security.
What is a Recycled Mobile Number?
Recycled numbers are those that remain unused for 90 days after disconnection and are then reassigned to another customer. According to the Department of Telecommunications (DoT), if a number remains inactive for three months, the telecom service provider blocks it, and it becomes available to a new customer. In such cases, if the old number remains linked to UPI, the risk of it falling into the wrong hands increases.
Why is it Necessary to Remove Old Numbers from UPI?
If your old number has been reassigned, the new user may gain access to sensitive banking data and transactions associated with your UPI account. Therefore, NPCI has implemented this new rule to provide users with the option to remove inactive mobile numbers from their UPI, strengthening their financial security.
User Consent Required for UPI Number Porting
NPCI has clarified that no UPI app can port a user's linked mobile number without permission. Apps must obtain explicit user consent (opt-in and opt-out options) for this feature. This change will bring greater transparency to UPI transactions and make digital payments more secure.
NPCI Issues New Directives
NPCI has directed all UPI apps not to compel users to consent through any confusing or intimidating process. The objective of this new rule is to secure the financial data and banking services of all UPI users. Therefore, if you have an old mobile number linked to your UPI, unlink it as soon as possible to secure your digital transactions.
