In a major upgrade to India’s digital payments ecosystem, the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) is introducing biometric authentication for UPI transactions.
The feature will allow users to verify payments through facial recognition or fingerprint scanning instead of entering a four or six digit PIN.
What’s Changing
Starting mid October, UPI users will be able to approve payments directly through their device’s fingerprint or face unlock system.
The new method will work on smartphones equipped with biometric sensors, offering faster and more secure payment confirmation.
Initially, biometric authentication will be available for transactions up to ₹5,000, with gradual expansion after stability testing.
Facial authentication using Aadhaar-linked verification will also allow users to reset UPI PINs without requiring debit card details or OTPs.
Why the Move Matters
According to NPCI officials, this step aims to improve security, convenience, and inclusivity in India’s growing fintech sector.
With over 400 million active UPI users, the feature is expected to reduce dependence on PINs which can be forgotten, guessed, or stolen.
Experts note that biometric methods are particularly useful for:
- Elderly users who struggle with remembering PINs
- Users in rural areas with limited digital literacy
- People who prefer one-tap verification over manual entry
This rollout is part of the Digital India Mission and was previewed during the Global Fintech Fest 2025 in Mumbai, alongside innovations like wearable-glass payments and multi-user UPI accounts.
Privacy and Security Measures
NPCI clarified that biometric data will be stored and verified on the device itself not uploaded to any central database ensuring user privacy and reducing the risk of leaks or misuse.
Key safeguards include:
- Users must consent before enabling biometric UPI.
- Biometric access is optional; PINs will remain valid.
- If unused for over 90 days, biometric access will be automatically disabled until reverified.
- Banks will require re-enrollment if a user changes their device.
Expert Opinion
Digital security expert Anjali Deshmukh commented:
“This shift is about balancing ease and safety. It’s faster than PINs and harder to fake, but success will depend on strict privacy standards and user awareness.”
She added that proper education campaigns are vital so users understand how to enroll, verify, and protect their biometric data.
How to Enable Biometric UPI (Expected Steps)
- Update your UPI app to the latest version.
- Go to Settings – Authentication Options – Enable Biometric.
- Scan your fingerprint or face to verify your identity.
- Use the same method to authorize small value transactions.
- Continue using PIN for larger or non-biometric payments.
The Bottom Line
India’s move toward biometric UPI authentication is a significant leap toward making digital payments more seamless, inclusive, and secure.
While adoption will take time, this marks another milestone in India’s journey as a global fintech leader where your fingerprint or face could soon replace your PIN.
