EPFO Simplifies UAN Activation with Face Authentication via UMANG App
New Delhi – In a significant step towards streamlining digital governance and employee self-service, the Employees’ Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) has introduced a faster and more secure way to activate Universal Account Numbers (UANs) using face authentication technology through the UMANG mobile app.
The move, announced via a recent EPFO circular, eliminates the need for employer intervention and physical visits to EPFO offices, allowing users to complete their UAN activation entirely through their smartphones.
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A New Digital Pathway for UAN Activation
According to EPFO, three new functionalities have been integrated into the Unified Mobile Application for New-age Governance (UMANG) to simplify the onboarding process for EPF members. The most notable is the introduction of Aadhaar-based Face Authentication Technology (FAT).
To use the new facility, users must:
- Download the UMANG app from the Play Store
- Install the Aadhaar Face RD app
- Use the face scan feature for real-time identity verification
Once verified, users can generate and activate their UANs independently, without employer support or in-person verification.
“The initiative empowers workers by offering seamless, secure, and paperless access to one of the most vital components of the EPF system,” said an EPFO official.
Why UAN Matters
The Universal Account Number (UAN) is a unique 12-digit number that centralizes an employee’s Provident Fund accounts under one umbrella, regardless of job changes. It allows employees to:
- View and manage EPF balances
- Transfer or withdraw funds
- Update KYC details
- Access passbooks and service history
Given its pivotal role, simplifying the UAN activation process has long been a priority for EPFO, especially to support workers in remote or underserved regions.
Empowering the Workforce Through Technology
The integration of Aadhaar-based biometric verification represents a growing trend in India’s push toward digital self-service models. The update not only enhances user convenience but also boosts data security through multi-factor authentication.
This tech-driven approach aligns with Digital India goals and is seen as a key step in improving service delivery, especially for first-time workers and informal sector employees seeking formal workforce inclusion.
Digital experts note that facial recognition adds an extra layer of security and convenience, especially when compared to legacy methods that relied heavily on physical forms and employer mediation.
What This Means for Employees
- Faster UAN access without HR or EPFO office involvement
- Safe, contactless authentication via Aadhaar’s Face RD technology
- 24/7 availability through a simple mobile interface
- Better service outreach in rural and semi-urban regions
Official Umang Website: https://web.umang.gov.in/landing/
Umang App: https://play.google.com/store/search?q=umang%20app&c=apps&hl=en_IN
In Summary:
EPFO’s adoption of face authentication for UAN activation is a welcome digital upgrade, simplifying access to essential retirement benefits for millions of Indian workers. With the UMANG app now supporting self-service UAN activation, the future of EPFO services is set to become more inclusive, efficient, and mobile-friendly.
