How to Make UPI Payments Without Sharing Your Phone Number

Introduction: UPI Payments Without Sharing Your Phone Number

The Unified Payments Interface (UPI) has transformed how people in India make payments, but many users are worried about privacy, especially when it involves sharing their phone numbers. Thankfully, there are ways to use UPI without revealing your phone number.

UPI payments have made online transactions incredibly easy for everyone. Whether shopping at a store, visiting a mall, or paying bills anywhere, UPI has simplified our lives. There is no need to carry cash; you can simply pay through UPI using your smartphone. This not only provides convenience but also enhances security, as you don’t have to worry about losing money or handling physical currency. With UPI, transactions are quick, safe, and hassle-free, making it a preferred choice for millions of people across the country.

Let’s find out how you can do this.

Understanding UPI

UPI is a real-time payment system created by the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI). It allows users to transfer money between bank accounts using a mobile device instantly. Your UPI ID is normally connected to your phone number, but you can create a Virtual Payment Address (VPA) to keep your number private.

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Ways to Make UPI Payments Without Sharing Your Phone Number

1. Create a Virtual Payment Address (VPA): Instead of using your phone number as your UPI ID, create a unique VPA. For example, instead of using “9876543210@upi,” you could use something like “yourname@upi.”
2. Use UPI Apps to Set Up a Custom VPA: Most UPI apps, like Google Pay, PhonePe, and Paytm, allow you to create a custom VPA. Here’s how to do it on some popular apps:
   • Google Pay: Open the app, go to your profile, and select “Payment Methods.” Choose “Add Bank Account” and follow the steps to create a new VPA.
   • PhonePe: Open the app, go to “My Money,” select “UPI IDs,” and create a new VPA.
   • Paytm: Open the app, go to “UPI & Wallet,” select “UPI Settings,” and create a new VPA.
3. Use UPI 123PAY: If you don’t have a smartphone or an internet connection, you can use UPI 123PAY. This service allows you to make UPI payments using a basic phone without showing your phone number. Here’s how:
   • IVR (Interactive Voice Response): Call a specific number and follow the voice prompts to make a payment.
   • Missed Call: Give a missed call to a number displayed at the merchant’s location. You will get a call back to confirm the transaction.
4. *Dial 99# for USSD-Based Payments: This service lets you make UPI payments without needing an internet connection. Just dial *99# from your registered phone number and follow the on-screen steps to send money using your VPA.

Interactive Section

Let’s make this more engaging with some activities:

1. Create Your Own VPA: Open your UPI app and create a custom VPA. Share your experience in the comments below. Was it easy to set up?
2. Quiz Time: Test your knowledge with these questions:
   • What does UPI stand for?
   • Name one way to make UPI payments without sharing your phone number.
   • What is the USSD code for making UPI payments without an internet connection?
3. Share Your Tips: Do you have other suggestions for making secure UPI payments? Share them in the comments to help others stay safe!

Benefits of Using a Custom VPA

Using a custom VPA helps keep your privacy intact and reduces the chance of your phone number being misused. It’s an easy and effective way to enjoy the benefits of UPI payments while keeping your details secure.

I hope you found this guide useful! Feel free to share your thoughts and join in the activities. Have fun and stay safe while transacting! 💸

Conclusion:

UPI payments have transformed how we handle money, making transactions easier, faster, and more secure. With the convenience of making payments directly from your smartphone, there’s no longer a need to carry cash or worry about change. Whether you’re shopping, dining, or paying bills, UPI simplifies the process, enhancing the overall experience of digital transactions. As more people embrace this technology, UPI continues to drive the shift towards a cashless economy, offering a reliable and efficient way to manage everyday financial activities.