SEBI Introduces “@valid” UPI IDs and Verification Platform for Investors

The Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) has introduced two measures to strengthen payment security for investors, Validated UPI Handles and SEBI Check. News reports suggest that both came into effect on October 1, 2025 and apply to brokers, mutual funds, and other registered intermediaries.

UPI Handles with “@valid” Tag

SEBI, in collaboration with the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI), has assigned exclusive “@valid” UPI IDs to registered entities. Each ID also carries a category-specific suffix. For example, “.brk” identifies brokers and “.mf” identifies mutual funds. A broker’s ID may appear as abc.brk@validhdfc, while a mutual fund could use xyz.mf@validicici.

Adoption Across Market Participants

The regulator confirmed that over 90% of brokers, covering most investors, have already moved to the validated handles. All mutual funds have adopted the system as well. SEBI has stated that these handles are available as an additional payment method alongside existing channels.

Authentication Features

Payments made to these handles display a green triangle with a thumbs-up symbol on the payment screen. If the icon does not appear, the transaction may not be directed to a registered entity. Intermediaries will also issue QR codes carrying the same thumbs-up symbol, providing another way for investors to identify verified payment channels.

SEBI Check Platform

In addition to validated UPI handles, SEBI has launched SEBI Check, a digital tool for verifying intermediaries’ details. Investors can confirm the authenticity of an account by entering the bank account number with IFSC code or the @valid UPI ID. This service is available through the SEBI website and the Saarthi mobile app. The tool can also be used for payments made through NEFT, RTGS, and IMPS.

Read more: UPI Payments to Be Charged? RBI Governor Clears the Air.

Conclusion

SEBI’s introduction of validated UPI IDs and the SEBI Check tool is for reducing unauthorised transactions. With adoption already in place across most brokers and all mutual funds, investors now have additional means to confirm the legitimacy of their payments.

Disclaimer: This blog has been written exclusively for educational purposes. The securities mentioned are only examples and not recommendations. This does not constitute a personal recommendation/investment advice. It does not aim to influence any individual or entity to make investment decisions. Recipients should conduct their own research and assessments to form an independent opinion about investment decisions. 

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