UPI Biometric Payments Start Oct 8 — Pay with Face or Fingerprint, No PIN Needed

Published: October 7, 2025

Biometric approvals for UPI will roll out across partner banks and apps. (Image: Wikimedia Commons)

India is bringing biometric authentication to UPI from October 8. That means you can approve payments using your face or fingerprint instead of typing a UPI PIN, under RBI/NPCI’s updated guidelines. The first wave will go live on select bank–app combinations and then expand.

What’s changing

• New way to approve: Use your phone’s built-in Face ID or fingerprint sensor to confirm payments.
• PIN optional: For supported devices and banks, biometrics can replace the UPI PIN for day-to-day transactions.
• Phased rollout: Starts with a few banks/apps, gradually opening to more devices and wallets.

How it works (simple)

1. Update your UPI app to the latest version.
2. In app settings, turn on Biometric Approval (if your bank/app supports it).
3. When you pay, your phone asks for face/fingerprint instead of a PIN.
4. Approval happens instantly on your device — no PIN entry screen.

Note: You can switch back to PIN anytime in your app’s security settings.

Who gets it first

• Supported phones: Devices with secure hardware (e.g., Trusted Execution Environment/Secure Enclave).
• Partner banks & apps: Early adopters roll out first; others will follow in the coming weeks.
• Merchants & users: Works for P2P, QR payments, and app checkouts once enabled.

Why it matters

• Faster checkout: No PIN typing, fewer failed attempts.
• Stronger security: Biometrics + device security reduce shoulder-surfing/PIN theft risks.
• Inclusion: Easier for first-time users and seniors who struggle with PINs.

Privacy & safety tips

• Only enroll biometrics on your personal device with a screen lock.
• Keep your OS and UPI app updated for the latest security patches.
• If your phone is lost, use Find My Device (Android/iOS) to lock or wipe it.
• Beware of screen-share scams; never share OTPs or one-time links with anyone.

Quick check: Don’t see the option yet? It’s rolling out in phases. Update your app, then check Settings → Security → Biometric Approval.

Labels: UPI • Biometric Authentication • RBI • NPCI • Digital Payments • Security

Read the Reuters report ↗