MPIN - Full Form, Meaning, Learn How To Generate & Use In UPI

20^th Mar 2025...

Published By : Team 811

MPIN is an important security feature in mobile banking. It is mainly used in platforms like UPI (Unified Payments Interface). MPIN is a unique code that authenticates transactions securely. MPIN also protects people against cyber threats and secures their mobile banking experience.

Learn MPIN meaning, how to generate it and use it effectively in this comprehensive guide.

What is MPIN number?

MPIN stands for Mobile Personal Identification Number. It’s a 4 or 6-digit passcode used to authenticate mobile banking transactions. This pin is a secure alternative to entering detailed bank information during payments.

For example, your MPIN might be a series of numbers like 172362 or 923813. You enter this code on your mobile banking app whenever you initiate a payment or transfer. The app then uses this code to verify your identity and ensure that you authorise the transaction.

With MPIN, users can conveniently authorise transactions without remembering complex account details or IFSC codes. UPI gains prominence in digital payments due to its convenience and absence of minimum transfer limits, so MPIN becomes increasingly crucial to keep mobile transactions secure.

Also Read: How to Generate a Debit Card PIN

Uses of MPIN

The MPIN is primarily used to log in securely to your bank’s mobile banking application. In some cases, when you initiate digital transfers such as IMPS, NEFT or UPI through the app, the MPIN may be asked to confirm your identity along with other security checks. Its main purpose is to provide safe access to your account and add an extra layer of protection while using mobile banking.

How to Generate MPIN?

To generate your MPIN for savings account mobile banking, you have several options:

Using Net Banking:

Log in to your net banking portal website using your customer ID and password.
Go to the mobile banking section, usually in Menu or Settings.
Look for the option to set up your MPIN and click on it.
You'll likely be prompted to verify your mobile number by entering an OTP (One-Time Password) sent to your registered mobile number.
Once verified, you'll be prompted to enter a 4 or 6-digit MPIN. Make sure it's something you can easily remember but difficult for others to guess.
Confirm the MPIN, and it will be set up for your mobile banking transactions.

Using the UPI App:

Open your preferred UPI app on your smartphone.
Log in using your banking customer ID and password.
Navigate to the Settings or Profile section within the app.
Look for the option to set up your MPIN and select it.
Follow the instructions provided by the app to set up and confirm your MPIN.
Once confirmed, your MPIN will be ready for use in UPI transactions.

Using an ATM Card:

Visit any bank ATM and insert your ATM card into the machine.
Enter your ATM PIN to proceed.
Select "Forgot MPIN / login password" or a similar option from the options displayed on the screen.
You may be required to authenticate your identity using an OTP sent to your registered mobile number.
Once authenticated, follow the on-screen instructions to set up your new MPIN.
After successfully setting up the MPIN, you'll receive a confirmation message on your registered mobile number.

Using USSD Code:

Dial a specified number from your mobile phone.
Follow the instructions in the USSD menu.
Select the option to generate an MPIN.
Enter the last six digits of your debit card and its expiry date as prompted.
Choose and confirm your desired MPIN.
Once confirmed, your MPIN will be generated and ready for use in USSD-based transactions.

Importance of MPIN in UPI

MPIN is a shield against unauthorised access. It is a unique passcode that verifies your identity without inputting details like IFSC codes. According to RBI guidelines, MPIN ensures two-way authentication, a key requirement for secure mobile banking.

When conducting transactions, the first authentication occurs through your registered mobile number, while the second involves inputting your MPIN, thus completing the verification process. This two-step verification adds an extra layer of security. UPI requires your mobile device and MPIN to ensure that only authorised users can access and manage their accounts.

Mistakes to Avoid When Setting MPIN

1. Use strong and unique numbers

Do not rely on simple choices like 1234, 0000 or your birth date. A unique MPIN that is harder to guess provides better protection.

2. Keep different MPINs for different accounts

Avoid reusing the same MPIN everywhere. Separate codes ensure that if one account is compromised, the others remain safe.

3. Keep your MPIN confidential

Never share your MPIN with anyone, even friends, family or service agents. Remember that no bank or payment provider will ever ask for it.

4. Store your MPIN securely

Do not write it down or save it in unsecured places like phone notes, chats or paper slips. Memorising it is always the safest option.

5. Update your MPIN regularly

Do not keep using the same MPIN for years. Changing it from time to time or immediately if you suspect compromise, adds an extra layer of security.

Difference Between UPI PIN, ATM PIN and MPIN

These are the key differences between UPI PIN, ATM PIN, and MPIN:

Parameters	MPIN	ATM PIN	UPI PIN
Use	Authorising mobile banking transactions through apps.	Authenticating debit cards for cash withdrawal or POS.	Authenticating transactions via UPI or net banking apps.
Length of code	4 to 6 digits	4 digits	4 to 6 digits
PIN setup	Through the bank's app.	Follow bank instructions or use an ATM.	Via UPI/Net banking app.
Reset/Change	Via ATM, bank app, or visiting the bank branch.	Through net banking or ATM.	Using any UPI or net banking app.
Use cases	Authorise mobile banking services or bank app transactions.	Check your balance or withdraw cash from the ATM.	Make offline/online transactions and check balances via UPI.

Conclusion

That’s all you need to know about what is MPIN number and how it is crucial for ensuring the security of mobile banking transactions. Generating and using an MPIN is a very simple process. However, it's important to exercise caution and never share your MPIN with anyone to prevent unauthorised access to your zero balance digital savings account. 

FAQs

1. Can I reset my forgotten MPIN for UPI?

Yes, most banks allow users to reset their forgotten MPIN through the mobile banking app or by contacting customer support.

2. Is it necessary to change my MPIN regularly?

While not mandatory, changing your MPIN periodically adds more security to your transactions.

3. What should I do if my MPIN gets locked?

If your MPIN gets locked, you can usually unlock it by following the bank's instructions in the mobile banking app or contacting customer support.

4. Can I use the same MPIN for multiple bank accounts linked to UPI?

For security reasons, you should use a unique MPIN for each bank account linked to UPI.

5. What is the difference between OTP and MPIN?

An OTP (One-Time Password) is a dynamic code generated for a single transaction or login session. An MPIN (Mobile PIN) is a fixed 4–6 digit code you set up to authorise recurring transactions or logins on mobile banking and UPI apps.

6. How does MPIN protect my information?

Your MPIN works like a digital key that only you know. Each time you use mobile banking app, the MPIN verifies your identity before allowing access or approving a transaction. This ensures your personal and financial data stays secure.

7. Is MPIN and PIN the same thing?

Both are security codes, but they serve slightly different purposes. A PIN usually refers to the code used at ATMs or for card transactions, while an MPIN is specifically for mobile banking and UPI services.

8. How do I get a 4-digit MPIN?

You can generate a 4-digit MPIN when registering for mobile banking or UPI through your bank’s app. After verifying your account with debit card details and OTP, you will be asked to set your MPIN.

9. How do I activate MPIN?

To activate MPIN, complete mobile/UPI registration in your bank’s app, enter required details like debit card number and expiry date, verify with OTP, and then set your chosen MPIN. Once set, it becomes active for transactions.

10. How do I find my MPIN number?

For security reasons, banks do not display your MPIN. If you forget it, you must reset it through your bank’s mobile app, net banking, or by using the “Forgot MPIN” option, which will guide you through OTP and debit card verification.

11. Can I use the same MPIN for multiple apps?

No. Each app generates its own MPIN linked to your bank account. You cannot use the same MPIN across multiple apps, but you can set a similar number for convenience if allowed. Always keep your MPIN confidential.