UPI Payments New Rules from October 8

Digital payments in India are set to become faster and more convenient. Starting October 8, 2025, users will be able to approve UPI transactions simply by using facial recognition or fingerprint scans instead of entering a PIN every time they make a payment.

This update is being introduced by the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI), which runs the Unified Payments Interface (UPI). The feature uses biometric verification linked to Aadhaar data. When a user initiates a payment, instead of typing a four or six digit PIN, they can authenticate instantly by scanning their face or fingerprint. The aim is to simplify the payment process while keeping it secure.

The move follows guidelines introduced by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) allowing banks and payment providers to use alternative authentication methods beyond the traditional PIN. The feature will be showcased at the Global Fintech Festival in Mumbai, where industry leaders are highlighting how digital payments in India are evolving with cutting edge technology.

Biometric authentication is expected to make UPI transactions faster and more inclusive. Many users, especially senior citizens and those who find it difficult to remember or enter PINs, will benefit from this change. At the same time, using unique biometric identifiers such as a fingerprint or face scan makes it harder for fraudsters to steal or misuse payment information.

Experts believe the system will significantly improve user experience but stress that privacy and consent must be prioritised. Before using the feature, users will need to give explicit permission to link their Aadhaar-based biometrics with their payment accounts. Banks and UPI apps will also have to ensure strong security to prevent misuse or unauthorised access.

With this new option, UPI is taking another big step towards making India a truly digital-first economy. For millions of users, paying with just a glance or a touch could soon become the new normal, making everyday transactions seamless, quick and secure.