RBI Discussion Paper Proposes 1-Hour Transaction Delay for Digital Payments Exceeding Rs 10,000
RBI proposes a 1-hour delay on digital transactions above Rs 10,000 to reduce fraud incidents.
The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has proposed introducing a one-hour delay for digital transactions exceeding ₹10,000 as part of new measures aimed at curbing rising fraud in online payments. The recommendation comes in a discussion paper exploring safeguards in digital payments, highlighting the growing risks associated with instant fund transfers in India’s rapidly expanding digital ecosystem.
According to the RBI, the proposed delay would act as a safety buffer, allowing users time to identify and report fraudulent transactions before funds are fully processed. This is particularly relevant in cases of authorised push payment (APP) frauds, where users are tricked into willingly transferring money to fraudsters under false pretences, often leaving little scope for reversal once the transaction is completed.
The central bank’s concern is backed by rising fraud data, with approximately 28 lakh digital payment fraud cases reported in 2025 involving around ₹22,931 crore. In comparison, 2024 saw nearly 24 lakh cases amounting to ₹22,848 crore. These figures, sourced from the National Cyber Crime Reporting Portal, underline the scale and persistence of the problem.
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The RBI noted that fraudsters are increasingly using sophisticated methods such as fake call centres, deepfake-based impersonation, and networks of mule bank accounts to deceive users. Vulnerable groups, including senior citizens, have been particularly affected, as scammers exploit trust and urgency to manipulate victims into transferring funds quickly.
By introducing a delay for higher-value transactions, the RBI aims to create a “cooling-off period” that could help prevent irreversible financial losses. During this window, users would have an opportunity to verify the legitimacy of the transaction or alert banks if they suspect fraud, thereby improving the chances of intervention.
The proposal is currently at the discussion stage, and the RBI is expected to seek feedback from stakeholders before implementing any changes. If adopted, the measure could significantly alter the way high-value digital payments are processed in India, balancing the need for speed with enhanced security in an increasingly digital financial landscape.
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