Unified Payments Interface (UPI) has revolutionized digital payments in India, making transactions seamless and instant. However, starting April 1, 2025, banks and payment service providers (PSPs) will suspend UPI services linked to certain inactive or reassigned mobile numbers. This move, initiated by the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI), aims to enhance security and prevent fraud.
Understanding these changes is crucial for users to ensure uninterrupted banking services. In this guide, we’ll explain why these suspensions are happening, how to check if your number is affected, and what steps you should take to avoid disruptions.
UPI Alert
| Topic | Details |
|---|---|
| UPI Rule Change Effective Date | April 1, 2025 |
| Reason for Suspension | Inactive, surrendered, or reassigned mobile numbers linked to UPI accounts |
| Authority Implementing the Change | National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) |
| Database Update Frequency | Weekly updates by banks and PSPs |
| Impact on Users | Possible suspension of UPI services if the linked mobile number is inactive |
| How to Avoid Issues | Verify and update your registered mobile number with the bank and UPI provider |
| Official NPCI Website | www.npci.org.in |
With UPI becoming a key part of digital transactions, it is essential to ensure your mobile number is active and up to date. Starting April 1, 2025, banks will suspend UPI services linked to inactive or reassigned mobile numbers to prevent fraud and security risks. To avoid disruptions, users should verify and update their registered mobile numbers promptly.
Why Are UPI Services Linked to Inactive Mobile Numbers Being Suspended?
The primary reason behind this move is security. When a mobile number is disconnected, surrendered, or reassigned, the old user’s UPI-linked accounts remain active unless delinked manually. This could lead to potential fraud, where a new owner of the number might gain access to UPI transactions linked to it.
How the New UPI Rule Works
- Banks and PSPs will regularly update their databases, identifying mobile numbers that have been deactivated, reassigned, or inactive for a long time.
- These numbers will be removed from the UPI system to prevent unauthorized access.
- Customers whose UPI-linked mobile numbers are flagged as inactive will receive a notification from their bank or PSP.
By implementing this policy, NPCI aims to eliminate risks associated with mobile number churn and ensure secure digital transactions.
Who Will Be Affected?
Users Who Changed Their Mobile Number
If you have recently changed your mobile number but haven’t updated it with your bank, your UPI services may get suspended.
Users Whose Mobile Numbers Are Inactive
If your mobile number has been inactive for a prolonged period, your bank may classify it as deactivated, leading to suspension.
People Who Surrendered Their Mobile Numbers
Those who have switched to a different mobile number but haven’t updated their bank records may face UPI service suspension.
Reassigned Mobile Numbers
If a mobile number is reassigned to a new user, and the old user’s UPI account is still linked to it, it will be removed to prevent misuse.
How to Check If Your UPI-Linked Mobile Number is Active
- Dial a Friend or Family Member – The simplest way to check if your mobile number is active is by making a call or sending a message.
- Check Bank SMS Alerts – If you are receiving OTPs and bank notifications, your number is active.
- Contact Your Bank’s Customer Support – Call your bank’s customer service and inquire about the status of your registered mobile number.
- Login to Your UPI App – If you can still receive OTPs and verify transactions via UPI, your number is not deactivated.
- Check with Your Telecom Provider – Contact your mobile network provider to verify the status of your phone number.
Steps to Update Your UPI-Linked Mobile Number
If your UPI services are at risk of suspension, here’s how you can update your mobile number:
1. Update Mobile Number via Net Banking
- Log in to your bank’s net banking portal.
- Navigate to the Profile or Personal Details section.
- Select Update Mobile Number and enter your new number.
- Verify using OTP and submit the request.
2. Update Mobile Number via Bank Branch
- Visit your nearest bank branch with valid ID proof.
- Fill out a mobile number update request form.
- Your bank will process the request, usually within 24-48 hours.
3. Update Mobile Number via UPI Apps
- Open your UPI app (Google Pay, PhonePe, Paytm, etc.).
- Navigate to Settings and select Change Mobile Number.
- Enter your new number and verify via OTP.
4. Update Mobile Number via ATM
- Visit your bank’s ATM and insert your debit card.
- Navigate to Update Mobile Number in the service section.
- Enter your new mobile number and confirm with OTP verification.
Impact on Businesses and Merchants
Businesses Using UPI for Payments
If businesses rely on UPI for transactions and their registered mobile numbers become inactive, they may face payment disruptions. Merchants should verify and update their mobile numbers to avoid losing transactions.
Indian Passport Rule Change: How It Will Impact Travelers!
Saving Account Alert! Depositing Too Much Cash? You Might Face a 60% Tax Penalty!
Freelancers and Small Businesses
For freelancers and small businesses that receive payments via UPI, ensuring that their linked mobile number is active is crucial to maintaining cash flow.
Corporate UPI Users
Corporate users managing bulk UPI transactions should ensure that their registered mobile numbers remain updated to prevent disruptions in automated payments.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What happens if my UPI-linked number is suspended?
If your mobile number is flagged as inactive, your UPI services will stop working. You will not be able to send or receive money until you update your registered number.
2. Can I re-link my UPI account if my number is deactivated?
Yes, once you update your mobile number with your bank, you can re-link your UPI account.
3. How often will banks check for inactive numbers?
Banks are required to update their databases at least once a week to detect inactive numbers.
4. Is there a deadline to update my mobile number?
It is best to update your mobile number before April 1, 2025, to avoid disruptions.
5. Will I receive a notification before my UPI services are suspended?
Yes, banks and PSPs are expected to notify affected users in advance.
6. Will changing my SIM card affect my UPI services?
If you keep the same number, changing your SIM card will not affect UPI services. However, if your number changes, you must update it with your bank.
