Key Highlights
- SEBI introduces @valid UPI handles for brokers, mutual funds, and intermediaries.
- Trust symbol: Green triangle with thumbs-up confirms authentic payments.
- SEBI Check tool launched to verify UPI IDs and bank details instantly.
- Over 90% brokers and all mutual funds have adopted the new system.
SEBI Launches Tools for Safer Investor Payments
The Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) has launched two new tools — @valid UPI handles and the SEBI Check platform — to protect investors from fraud and ensure money only reaches SEBI-registered intermediaries.
Quick Comparison: Before vs After
| Aspect | Before | Now (With @valid & SEBI Check) |
|---|---|---|
| UPI Handles | Generic UPI IDs (hard to identify genuine intermediaries) | Unique UPI IDs ending with @valid + suffix (.brk, .mf) |
| Trust Indicator | No standard trust symbol, higher risk of fraud | Green triangle with thumbs-up confirms authenticity |
| Verification Option | No central verification tool for IDs or bank details | SEBI Check portal, Saarthi app, and SEBI website |
| Coverage | Scattered adoption, risk of dealing with unregistered entities | Adopted by 90% brokers and 100% mutual funds |
What’s New for Investors?
- @valid UPI handles: All SEBI-registered intermediaries (brokers, mutual funds, etc.) will use UPI IDs ending with @valid. Handles carry suffixes like “.brk” (broker) or “.mf” (mutual funds) for easy identification.
- Trust symbols: Payments made through @valid handles show a green triangle with a thumbs-up symbol, confirming authenticity. QR codes carry the same symbol.
- SEBI Check: A verification tool available on the SEBI Check portal, the Saarthi app, and the SEBI website to confirm UPI IDs or bank account details.
Wide Adoption Already
According to SEBI, over 90% of brokers and all mutual funds have already adopted @valid UPI handles. Investors can still use NEFT, RTGS, or IMPS, but @valid handles offer a faster and safer option.
How to Use SEBI Check
Before making a transfer, investors can verify:
- The UPI ID ending with @valid.
- Bank account number and IFSC code of intermediaries.
This can be done on the SEBI Check platform, via the Saarthi mobile app, or on the SEBI official portal.
Why This Matters
Fraudulent fund collection by unregistered entities is a major risk for investors. With these new tools:
- You can confirm whether your broker or mutual fund is genuine.
- You get extra security with unique UPI IDs and trust symbols.
- You can independently verify every payment detail before sending money.
Investor Takeaway
Always look for:
- UPI IDs ending with @valid.
- The green thumbs-up trust symbol on UPI apps and QR codes.
- SEBI Check verification before transferring funds.
A quick verification step can save investors from losing thousands to fraudulent entities.
Note: These investor protection tools are already live. SEBI has urged all investors to adopt @valid UPI handles and actively use the SEBI Check platform before making any payments.
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