If your bank account is linked to an old or inactive mobile number, then you may face problems in doing UPI transactions from April 1, 2025. Let us know why this change has been made and what you should do.
If you use Google Pay, PhonePe, Paytm or other UPI apps, then there is an important update for you. National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) has implemented new UPI rules from April 1, 2025. Especially bank accounts linked to inactive mobile numbers will be affected.
If your bank account is linked to an old or inactive mobile number, you may face problems in doing UPI transactions. Let us know why this change has been made and what you should do.
What is the new UPI rule?
NPCI has issued a new guideline to prevent cyber fraud and technical glitches. Under this:
- Mobile numbers that have been inactive for a long time will be removed from the bank account.
- If telecom operators allot these numbers to someone else, then the risk of UPI fraud increases.
- Every bank and UPI app must ensure that old numbers are removed from the banking system.
Why is mobile number required for UPI transactions?
In UPI payments, your mobile number is your identity. When you make a payment through UPI:
- Your linked mobile number verifies the payment.
- If the number is inactive or allotted in someone else’s name, your money may go to the wrong account.
- This increases the chances of payment failure or cyber fraud.
What to do if your mobile number is inactive?
If your mobile number has not been recharged for a long time or the number linked to the bank account has changed, then you will have to follow these steps.
- Check with your telecom operator (Jio, Airtel, Vi, BSNL) whether your number is still active or not.
- If your old number is closed, then immediately go to the bank and get the new mobile number updated.
- Banks and UPI apps will have to update the list of inactive numbers every week as per the new rules of NPCI.
- After updating your number, update it on UPI apps (Google Pay, PhonePe, Paytm) as well.
