Airtel Payments Bank Integrates with I4C’s Real-Time API for Enhanced Security

Bharti Airtel

Airtel Payments Bank has become the first payments bank in India to integrate its systems with the Indian Cybercrime Coordination Centre’s (I4C) real-time API. This integration is part of the National Cybercrime Reporting Portal (NCRP)-Citizen Financial Cyber Fraud Reporting and Management System (CFCFRMS) under the Ministry of Home Affairs. The move aims to strengthen customer security and combat financial fraud.

Real-time fraud prevention
The integration automates manual processes previously used to address complaints filed through the I4C’s National Cybercrime Reporting Portal, including the 1930 helpline. It enables real-time information sharing between Airtel Payments Bank, I4C, and the Ministry of Home Affairs. Details such as complaint numbers, mobile numbers, account numbers, fraud amounts, and transaction references are shared instantly. This allows the bank to take immediate action to prevent further misuse of reported accounts.

Commitment to customer safety
Ganesh Ananthanarayanan, Chief Operating Officer of Airtel Payments Bank, stated, “Customer safety is a priority. This integration ensures real-time resolution of fraud complaints and strengthens our efforts to combat financial fraud.” The bank’s safety solutions, powered by Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML), are designed to detect and mitigate fraud effectively.

Regulatory support and collaboration
The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) and the Department of Financial Services (DFS) have advised banks to collaborate with the NCRP to implement measures against fraudulent transactions. Following the API integration, Airtel Payments Bank and other participating banks have reported improved turnaround times in holding crime proceeds within the digital financial ecosystem.

Digital banking ecosystem
Airtel Payments Bank operates over 5 lakh banking points across India and offers a range of digital banking solutions. The bank is aligned with the Government’s Digital India initiative, focusing on financial inclusion and expanding access to digital banking services.