NPCI Introduces New UPI Rules for Mobile Number Linking: Here’s What Users Need to Know:

The National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) has rolled out fresh guidelines to minimize errors and risks in Unified Payments Interface (UPI) transactions due to recycled or deactivated mobile numbers. Effective from March 31, 2025, these changes are mandatory for all UPI service providers including GPay, Paytm, PhonePe, and BHIM.

What’s Changing for UPI Users?

UPI providers must now cross-verify mobile numbers using a Mobile Number Revocation List (MNRL) to prevent misdirected payments.

Users must explicitly opt-in to link or port their UPI number.

Apps are required to provide non-intrusive, clear prompts for user consent — avoiding forced opt-ins during transactions.

Failure to link an updated number could lead to account deactivation or transaction failures.

How to Link or Port Your Phone Number in UPI Apps

If you haven’t yet linked your phone number with your UPI app, follow these steps:

Open your UPI app (e.g., GPay, Paytm, BHIM).

Wait for a popup prompt to appear — typically shown at app startup.

Tap on “Continue” or follow the on-screen instructions as per the app’s format.

Once completed, your number is linked/ported, allowing you to send and receive money using your mobile number.

Note: If your number is already linked and active, no further action is required.

Why This Matters

The update enhances payment security and user convenience, addressing long-standing issues with mobile number reuse. By ensuring accurate linking, users are protected from payment misdirection or unauthorized access due to recycled numbers.