Winning Bizness Desk
Mumbai. UPI users might soon be able to make payments using their fingerprint or face ID instead of entering a PIN. As per media reports, the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI), which operates UPI, is planning to add biometric authentication to make digital transactions more secure and convenient.
No pin required if biometrics are used
Once this update is implemented, entering a PIN will become optional. People will be able to complete payments using biometric details like their fingerprint or face ID, similar to how they unlock their smartphones. This could make the entire UPI process quicker and easier for users..
Biometric payments are more secure
Biometric authentication uses unique physical features like fingerprints or face structure. These features are much harder to copy compared to PINs or passwords, making the system safer. This will help reduce fraud and improve the user experience, especially for those who find it hard to remember PINs.
Update may roll out in next few months
NPCI is currently working on this update but has not announced an official launch date. The new biometric option may appear in UPI apps within a few months, after successful testing and technical upgrades by app developers and payment service providers.
Deading apps to support biometric feature
Popular UPI apps like Google Pay, PhonePe, and Paytm are expected to support this biometric system. However, in the beginning, the feature may be available only for a few users as part of a trial run. After that, it could be expanded to more users in phases.
Data privacy and safety measures needed
NPCI plans to store biometric data in encrypted form to avoid misuse. While this adds a layer of protection, strong data privacy and security measures will be important to win user trust. Authorities will need to ensure that the system remains safe from hacking or data leaks.
7 small pointers
- UPI payments may soon work via fingerprint or face scan
- NPCI is working to introduce this new feature
- PIN will no longer be mandatory for payments
- Biometric data is safer and harder to misuse
- Feature may roll out in select apps first
- Google Pay, PhonePe, Paytm likely to support
- Strong privacy and data safety rules needed
