How Secure Is Google Pay?

Many people use Google Pay for quick UPI transactions. However, recent news shows that 1 in 3 payments still lack fraud protection. Google Pay delayed integrating the Fraud Risk Indicator (FRI), which prevents scams by flagging risky phone numbers.

Google Pay UPI Policy Changes

The Reserve Bank of India ordered all UPI apps to use the FRI tool. This tool gives users warnings for medium-risk numbers and blocks payments for high-risk numbers. Now, apps like PhonePe and Paytm have adopted this system. Conversely, GPay is still working on integration, which leaves many payments without extra security.​

UPI platforms, including GPay, must follow new guidelines. The National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) stopped the peer-to-peer collect feature from October, reducing fraud risk. Instead, users now scan QR codes or enter UPI IDs to send money, making safety easier.

Google Pay Security Features

Google Pay assures users that safety matters most. Users get device-level security, strong encryption, and biometric authentication for every transaction. You may use your fingerprint or face to approve payments below ₹5,000. Although the biometric feature is optional, you can activate or deactivate it as needed for more control.​

Google Pay plans to complete FRI integration soon. Meanwhile, users should always verify payment requests. Biometric locks and PINs make transactions safer, but users must stay alert.

UPI Updates and User Actions

Since August 2025, UPI users face limits on checking bank balances. You can check your balance 50 times per day per app, which keeps systems fast and reliable. Google Pay also urges users to report suspicious requests and use official support channels for help.​

For merchant payments, the process remains secure. Merchant requests follow strict authentication, so shopping stays safe. Account verification, inactive UPI ID deactivation, and visible bank names also help users avoid fraud.