UPI Accounts to Be Blocked on These Mobile Numbers Starting April 1: What Should You Do?
If your UPI-linked mobile number has been inactive for a long time, you need to act fast. The National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) has directed banks and payment service providers (PSPs) to remove inactive or changed mobile numbers from their databases by March 31. Failing this, users with inactive numbers will lose access to UPI services from April 1.
Why Is This Happening?
According to NPCI, inactive mobile numbers linked to UPI IDs pose a security risk. Many users who change or deactivate their numbers often forget to delete their UPI IDs, making them potential targets for fraud. To prevent misuse, banks and UPI apps like Google Pay and PhonePe must now update their records weekly using the Mobile Number Revocation List (MNRL) from the Digital Intelligence Platform (DIP).
Who Will Be Affected?
- Users who changed their mobile number but did not update it with their bank.
- Those who deactivated their number without informing their bank.
- Inactive numbers not used for calls, SMS, or other services will be removed from the UPI network.
How to Avoid Service Disruption?
- Ensure your bank-registered mobile number is active.
- Update your mobile number with the bank if changed recently.
- If your UPI-linked number is inactive, get a new active number before April 1 to continue using UPI services.
This move aims to enhance digital payment security and reduce fraud risks. If you rely on UPI for daily transactions, check your registered mobile number now to avoid last-minute hassles.
