If you use UPI for transactions or have a bank account linked to mobile banking, an important update is coming your way. A new rule set to take effect from April 1 could result in the suspension of banking and UPI services for certain mobile numbers. Understanding this change is crucial to ensure uninterrupted access to your financial transactions.
From April 1, banks will begin deactivating accounts and UPI services linked to inactive mobile numbers. This step is being taken in compliance with the latest directive issued by the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI). Digital payment platforms like Google Pay, PhonePe, and Paytm will also follow this new mandate, removing inactive numbers from their databases.
The NPCI has instructed financial institutions and UPI service providers to eliminate inactive or recycled mobile numbers from their records by March 31. The primary reason behind this move is to prevent transaction failures and security risks associated with outdated numbers.
When a mobile number remains inactive for an extended period—typically 90 days—it is often reassigned to a new user by telecom service providers. If such numbers are still linked to old bank accounts or UPI IDs, it can lead to security breaches, unauthorized access, or failed transactions. To curb these issues, NPCI has mandated the regular purging of such numbers from banking systems.
From April 1 onwards, banks will implement a weekly review process to identify and remove inactive numbers linked to UPI and banking accounts. This means that if your registered mobile number has not been used for calls, SMS, or internet services for the past three months, it will be considered inactive, and your banking and UPI services could be revoked.
To ensure your bank account and UPI services remain active, it is advisable to take the following steps:
Recharge and Use Your Mobile Number Regularly – Make at least one call, send an SMS, or use mobile data occasionally to keep your number active.
Update Your Registered Mobile Number – If you have changed your primary mobile number, update it with your bank and UPI provider immediately.
Check Your UPI Linked Number – Ensure that the mobile number linked to your UPI app is in use and not inactive for an extended period.
The upcoming changes in banking and UPI services aim to enhance security and prevent transaction failures due to inactive or reassigned mobile numbers. If you rely on digital payments, it is essential to keep your registered mobile number active to avoid any disruptions. Ensure that your number remains in use to continue hassle-free banking and UPI transactions without any interruptions.
