BHIM rolls out biometric authentication for UPI payments

Srinagar, Mar 24: NPCI BHIM Services Limited (NBSL), a wholly owned subsidiary of the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI), has launched biometric authentication for UPI payments on the BHIM app, enabling users to approve transactions up to ₹5,000 using fingerprint or facial recognition.

The feature, available on both Android and iOS devices supporting biometric capabilities, eliminates the need to enter a UPI PIN for small-value transactions, making payments faster and more seamless. It can be used across common scenarios, including peer-to-peer transfers, merchant QR payments, and online purchases.

Lalitha Nataraj, MD & CEO of NBSL, said the move aims to enhance both convenience and security. “By enabling users to authenticate payments through fingerprint or face unlock, we are simplifying the payment experience while strengthening trust and security,” she said.

The addition of biometric verification reduces risks associated with PIN entry errors or sharing, as authentication remains linked to the user’s device. Transactions above Rs 5,000 will continue to require UPI PIN, ensuring added protection for higher-value payments.