UPI now lets you pay using your fingerprint or face
UPI just got a big upgrade: now you can make payments using your fingerprint or face instead of typing a PIN.
Rolled out by NPCI on October 8 and announced at the Global Fintech Festival, this new feature is designed to make payments quicker and easier, especially for people who aren't super comfortable with digital tech.
How it works?
When you pay, your device scans your fingerprint or face; authentication may be performed locally using your device's biometric system (verified cryptographically by your bank) or, where chosen, via Aadhaar-based facial verification.
There's also a new Face Authentication option via UIDAI's FaceRD app, so you can set or reset your PIN without juggling OTPs or card details.
Is it safe?
Biometric payments mean less worry about someone stealing your PIN by looking over your shoulder.
Experts have urged strong encryption and explicit consent mechanisms to keep biometric payments safe; NPCI says transactions will be verified using cryptographic checks.
Biometric payments could improve accessibility
This update could be a game-changer for people who find PINs tricky, like those in rural areas or anyone not used to smartphones.
It could improve accessibility for many users — especially senior citizens, first-time users and those in rural areas — by reducing reliance on PINs.