UPI: Good news for UPI users. The adoption of digital payments is swiftly growing in India, and to enhance convenience and security, ICICI Bank has introduced a new feature. Customers can now skip entering a PIN for UPI payments, as the bank has rolled out biometric authentication on its iMobile app, allowing payments through fingerprint or face ID. This feature is specifically for UPI transactions up to Rs 5,000; for amounts exceeding this limit, entering a UPI PIN will still be necessary as before. Let’s explore the details further.
This innovative feature is designed not only to expedite payments but also to bolster security. When entering a PIN in busy areas, there’s a chance of shoulder surfing, where someone might glance at your password. Biometric systems greatly minimize this risk. Users can now complete payments with just a touch or a face scan, eliminating the need for a PIN and making the entire process more secure and user-friendly.
This feature is applicable for various UPI transactions. Whether you’re transferring money, scanning a QR code at a shop, shopping online, or paying a merchant, it can be utilized everywhere. Thankfully, this feature is accessible to both Android and iPhone users, as long as they have the latest version of the iMobile app installed. Android devices support fingerprint recognition, while iPhones support Face ID.
Activating this feature is a breeze. Simply log into the iMobile app, navigate to UPI settings, select your bank account, and enable the Use biometric for payments option. After entering your UPI PIN and verifying, your biometric setup will be complete.
Currently, UPI stands as the most popular payment system in India. This new technology not only accelerates transactions but also enhances public confidence. In the future, this feature could further simplify, secure, and smarten digital payments.
Keep these in mind
Keep your UPI PIN and App Lock strong
The most basic yet crucial thing is your UPI PIN. Never share it with anyone. Avoid simple numbers like 1234 or your date of birth. Also, always keep App Lock (PIN, fingerprint, or face unlock) on in your UPI app.
Check the Collect Request (Request Money) carefully
The most common method of UPI fraud is “Request Money,” where scammers often send requests posing as money transfers. Remember: you enter your UPI PIN only to send money, not to receive it. Don’t accept any unknown request without verifying it.
Keep Transaction Alerts and SMS Alerts on
It’s important to receive instant notifications for every transaction. Keep SMS and app notifications turned on to quickly detect any suspicious activity.
Set Daily Transaction Limit
Set a daily transaction limit in your UPI app based on your needs. This will limit losses in the event of fraud.
Avoid Unknown Apps and Screen Sharing
Many fraudulent calls involve scammers asking you to share your screen or download a remote access app. Never do this. This gives them complete control of your phone.
Use only Trusted Contacts and Verified IDs
Always check the UPI ID or name before sending money. Many apps also display a verified merchant or trusted badge, which helps you identify whether the person on the other end is genuine.
Avoid using UPI on public Wi-Fi
Performing UPI transactions over public Wi-Fi can lead to data leaks. Always use mobile data or a secure network.
