How to Use UPI Without Internet or SIM Card: Myth or Reality?

Focus Keyword: UPI without internet

In India, digital payments have become a daily part of our lives. But have you ever wondered if UPI can work without internet or even without a SIM card? This question is crucial, especially in rural areas or during internet outages. Let’s explore what’s myth and what’s reality when it comes to offline UPI transactions.

Can You Really Use UPI Without Internet?

Yes, you can. Thanks to a service called *99# USSD-based banking, it is possible to send money via UPI even without an internet connection. This service works on any basic mobile phone and doesn’t require a smartphone or data pack.

Note: You must have a SIM card inserted in your phone and registered with your bank account.

How Does *99# USSD UPI Work?

Here’s a step-by-step guide:

Dial *99# from your phone.
Select “Send Money” from the options.
Choose the method: Mobile number, UPI ID, or bank account.
Enter the amount and UPI PIN.
Transaction complete! You’ll receive a confirmation message.

Limitations of USSD-Based UPI

While useful, USSD banking has certain constraints:

Daily limit is ₹5,000 per user.
Only available in English and Hindi (limited regional language support).
Requires an active SIM and mobile network (though no internet).

Can You Use UPI Without SIM Card?

This is not possible. UPI requires device verification via your registered SIM. Without a SIM, you cannot authenticate or generate a UPI PIN, making the process insecure and unusable.

UPI without internet or SIM card - illustrated guide

Who Can Benefit Most from USSD UPI?

People in remote or rural areas with weak data connectivity
Seniors who use basic phones
Users during internet outages or phone data exhaustion

Pro Tip: If you travel often or live in areas with poor signal, activate *99# services as a backup.

Is USSD UPI Safe?

Yes. It uses a UPI PIN just like app-based UPI services. Always ensure you’re dialing *99# and never share your PIN with anyone. The system is governed by the NPCI and backed by RBI regulations.

Conclusion

UPI without internet is not a myth — it’s a reality with *99#. However, using UPI without a SIM is still not feasible. As India continues pushing for financial inclusion, services like USSD banking will play a crucial role in bridging the digital gap.

Techykushal

Techykushal