With the increasing adoption of digital wallets and mobile financial services across Pakistan, millions of people are opting for cashless transactions to fulfill their daily financial needs. Platforms such as Easypaisa and JazzCash have emerged as major enablers of this shift, providing easy-to-use solutions for payments, transfers, and a variety of other financial services. However, this rapid expansion has also underscored the importance of tighter security frameworks to protect users from fraud and misuse.
To address these concerns and further secure the digital payments ecosystem, the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) has introduced a new regulation that requires biometric verification for cash deposits through retail agents. This rule took effect on July 1, 2025, and applies to customers using services like Easypaisa and JazzCash when making deposits or withdrawals at retailer outlets.
Under the new directive, customers visiting biometric-enabled retail agents must complete a fingerprint verification process before executing deposit or withdrawal transactions. This means cash transactions through retailers without biometric authentication will no longer be facilitated. The regulation does not impact online transactions, which users can continue to perform without any new verification requirements.
Amid the announcement, various rumors and misinformation began circulating on social media, sparking unnecessary panic among users. Clarifying these misconceptions, it has been confirmed that no mobile wallet accounts will be blocked due to this new requirement. Customers’ funds remain entirely secure, and the biometric process is solely aimed at ensuring deposits and withdrawals at retail points are processed safely.
The SBP has emphasized that this step is crucial for enhancing the security of the digital financial ecosystem. By linking transactions to a verified biometric identity, the central bank aims to curb fraudulent activities and create a safer environment for all mobile wallet users in Pakistan. This initiative aligns with global trends where financial institutions leverage biometric technologies to add a robust layer of security to digital transactions.
For millions of Pakistanis who rely on mobile wallets for everything from utility bill payments to e-commerce purchases, this move should be viewed positively. It is designed to strengthen trust in the digital finance landscape, safeguard users’ money, and promote the continued growth of cashless payments across the country.
Retailers equipped with biometric systems are already ready to assist customers through this process, ensuring minimal inconvenience while maintaining the safety of each transaction. In the long run, the implementation of biometric verification is expected to play a pivotal role in building a more secure and resilient digital payment infrastructure in Pakistan.