ISLAMABAD – With digital payments now accounting for over two-thirds of Pakistan’s retail transactions, authorities are exploring stricter regulations to prevent financial fraud and misuse of mobile wallets.
Recently, social media and messaging platforms have been flooded with claims that biometric verification will become mandatory for all JazzCash and Easypaisa users from July 1. These reports allege that accounts not registered under the actual user’s name — including those of deceased persons — will be blocked or frozen unless fingerprint-based verification is completed.
The viral messages have caused confusion and concern among thousands of mobile wallet users, particularly in rural areas where people often manage wallets on behalf of family members.
According to these unverified reports, failure to complete biometric verification could result in the permanent loss of access to funds.
However, no official statement, press release, or notification has been issued by the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) confirming the enforcement of such rules or any July 1 deadline.
While the SBP has previously encouraged biometric verification to improve digital payment security and reduce financial fraud, consumers are still waiting for official clarification regarding the current policy or any upcoming requirements.
Until an official update is shared by the SBP or the digital wallet service providers themselves, users are advised to stay cautious and avoid panic.
