Introduction
Unified Payments Interface (UPI) has revolutionized India’s digital payments ecosystem, making transactions seamless, instant, and secure. However, with convenience comes vulnerability. Over the past few years, cybercriminals have increasingly misused the P2P (peer-to-peer) ‘Collect Request’ feature to scam unsuspecting users.
To strengthen digital payment security, the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) has announced that from October 1, 2025, the P2P ‘Collect Request’ feature will be discontinued. This move is aimed at curbing rising cases of UPI-related fraud and ensuring a safer transaction environment for millions of users.
What is the UPI ‘Collect Request’ Feature?
The ‘Collect Request’ feature in UPI allowed users to send a payment request to another individual, who could then approve it to transfer money.
For example:
- A friend could send you a request for ₹500, and you could accept to pay instantly.
- Merchants or small vendors could request payments instead of waiting for you to enter their UPI ID manually.
While designed for ease of use, scammers exploited this feature by sending fraudulent requests to users, often tricking them into approving transactions unknowingly.
Why is NPCI Removing the Feature?
1. Rising Fraud Cases
Cybercriminals increasingly sent fake ‘Collect Requests’ posing as banks, customer care representatives, or merchants, leading to unauthorized money transfers.
2. User Confusion
Many users were unaware of the difference between sending money and approving a collect request, making them vulnerable to scams.
3. Safer Alternatives Available
With UPI QR codes, payment links, and direct transfers, users already have multiple safe and easy options to make payments.
4. Building Trust in Digital Payments
By removing this feature, NPCI ensures greater consumer trust in UPI, which is critical as India heads towards a cashless economy.
What Will Change From October 1, 2025?
- The P2P ‘Collect Request’ option will no longer be available for UPI users.
- Users will still be able to send money, scan QR codes, and use UPI IDs for secure transfers.
- Merchants and businesses will continue to use UPI AutoPay, mandates, and payment gateways for recurring or request-based payments.
- Apps like Google Pay, PhonePe, Paytm, and BHIM will update their platforms to remove this feature.
How Does This Benefit Users?
1. Reduced Risk of Scams
Without the option to send random requests, scammers lose a key trick to exploit users.
2. Clearer Transaction Flow
Users will focus only on initiating payments themselves, reducing accidental approvals.
3. Stronger Digital Ecosystem
The move reinforces UPI’s position as the most secure payment method in India.
Expert Opinions
- NPCI Statement: “The decision is part of our continuous efforts to enhance security and prevent misuse of UPI by fraudsters.”
- Cybersecurity Experts: They believe this move will cut down fraud attempts significantly, as scams via ‘Collect Requests’ were one of the most common traps.
- Fintech Analysts: While merchants might miss the feature, safer alternatives already exist, making the transition smoother.
Alternatives to UPI Collect Request
Even without the Collect Request feature, users and merchants can rely on:
- QR Code Payments – The Most popular and secure method for small and large transactions.
- UPI ID Transfer – Direct entry of UPI ID ensures control over payment direction.
- UPI Payment Links – Used by businesses to request payments safely.
- UPI AutoPay – For subscriptions, bill payments, and recurring transactions.
How Users Can Stay Safe on UPI
1. Double-Check Before Paying
Never approve any request or link without verifying the source.
2. Use Only Official Apps
Stick to trusted UPI apps like BHIM, Google Pay, PhonePe, or Paytm.
3. Enable UPI App Security
Set strong app locks and biometric authentication.
4. Report Fraud Immediately
If you suspect fraud, contact your bank or use the NPCI helpline for UPI complaints.
Impact on India’s Digital Payments Future
The removal of P2P Collect Requests will:
- Make UPI transactions safer and more trustworthy.
- Protect new digital payment users in rural and semi-urban areas.
- Encourage wider adoption of UPI by businesses and government services.
- Support India’s ambition of becoming a global leader in digital finance.
Conclusion
The discontinuation of the P2P ‘Collect Request’ feature on UPI from October 1, 2025, is a landmark decision in the journey toward a safer digital payments ecosystem in India. While the feature was originally meant for convenience, its misuse by fraudsters led to growing concerns.
By prioritizing security over convenience, NPCI and UPI platforms are ensuring that millions of users can continue to trust digital transactions. This move, combined with evolving features like UPI Lite, AutoPay, and international UPI payments, strengthens India’s position as the world’s most advanced digital payment system.
Disclaimer
This article is for informational purposes only. The information is based on publicly available updates from NPCI and media reports. Users are advised to check official announcements from their respective UPI apps or banks for the latest and confirmed details.
