Airtel Payments Bank Becomes First Payments Bank to Integrate with I4C’s Real-Time API for Enhanced Cybersecurity

Varahi media.com online news,India, February 7, 2025: Airtel Payments Bank has become the first payments bank in India to integrate its systems with the Indian Cybercrime Coordination Centre (I4C) under the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) through a real-time API connection with the National Cybercrime Reporting Portal (NCRP).

This landmark initiative is aimed at strengthening customer security and combating financial fraud more effectively.

With this integration, Airtel Payments Bank joins the league of four leading banks in India that have adopted this advanced cybersecurity measure. The initiative enables real-time sharing of fraud-related information between the bank, I4C, and MHA, allowing for faster response times and immediate action against cyber fraud complaints reported through NCRP, including the 1930 cybercrime helpline.

The API integration eliminates manual intervention and streamlines the process of handling fraud cases by automatically providing key details such as complaint numbers, mobile numbers, account details, reported fraud amounts, and transaction references. This allows authorities to take prompt action and prevent further misuse of affected accounts.

Ganesh Ananthanarayanan, Chief Operating Officer of Airtel Payments Bank, emphasized the bank’s commitment to customer security, stating:”At Airtel Payments Bank, customer safety remains our top priority. This integration with I4C and the Ministry of Home Affairs reinforces our commitment to staying ahead in the fight against financial frauds. The real-time exchange of information ensures quicker resolution of fraudulent complaints, further strengthening our security measures.”

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) and the Department of Financial Services (DFS) have also directed all financial institutions to collaborate with the NCRP to implement fraud mitigation strategies. Following the API integration, Airtel Payments Bank has reported a significant reduction in turnaround time, improving its ability to hold fraudulent transactions within the digital financial ecosystem.

As part of its commitment to cybersecurity, Airtel Payments Bank has also deployed Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML)-powered safety solutions to detect and prevent fraudulent activities proactively. The latest integration with I4C aligns with the bank’s broader strategy to adopt technology-driven measures that enhance security in India’s rapidly growing digital-first economy.

By leveraging innovation and regulatory partnerships, Airtel Payments Bank continues to set new benchmarks in safeguarding digital transactions, reaffirming its leadership in the payments banking sector.