New NPS Rule: Two-Factor Aadhaar Authentication for National Pension System Account Login

Key Takeaways:

1. Two-factor Aadhaar-based authentication will be linked with the present User ID and Password login method for accessing the CRA system.

2. The new security feature significantly reduces the risk of unauthorized access to the CRA system, thereby protecting NPS transactions and the interests of subscribers and stakeholders.

3. Nodal offices in the government sector can use Aadhaar OTP for 2-factor authentication on the CRA and NPSCAN systems, enhancing security measures.

4. The attached document outlines the standard operating process for Nodal offices to link their Aadhaar and proceed with functional activities using the CRA system.

Synopsis:

The “New NPS rule from April 1: How to do two-factor Aadhaar authentication to log into National Pension System account” outlines the implementation of a new security layer, two-factor Aadhaar-based authentication, for all password-based users logging into the Central Record-keeping Agency (CRA) system of the National Pension System (NPS) starting from April 1, 2024. This new security feature is aimed at enhancing the protection of NPS transactions and safeguarding the interests of subscribers and stakeholders.

Key Points

1. Security Enhancement: The Pension Fund Regulatory and Development Authority (PFRDA) has introduced a two-factor Aadhaar-based authentication, which will be required for all password-based users logging into the CRA system beginning April 1, 2024. This additional layer significantly reduces the risk of unauthorized access to the CRA system, thereby safeguarding NPS transactions and protecting the interests of both subscribers and stakeholders.

2. Login Mechanism: An Aadhaar-based login authentication will be integrated with the current user ID and password-based login process to make the NPS central record-keeping agency or CRA system accessible through two-factor authentication.

3. Steps for Two-Factor Authentication: The document provides a step-by-step guide on how to log into the CRA system using two-factor authentication. Users are required to visit the NPS website, click on ‘Login with PRAIN/IPIN’, enter their user ID and password, complete the Aadhaar authentication process, and enter the OTP sent to their registered mobile number to access their NPS account.

4. Additional Security Feature: The CRA system will now use Aadhaar-based authentication for login purposes, linked with the present User ID and Password login method, allowing for 2-factor authentication to access the CRA system.

5. Aadhaar Mapping: Nodal offices in the government sector can use Aadhaar OTP for 2-factor authentication on the CRA and NPSCAN systems. The document outlines the process for Nodal offices to link their Aadhaar and proceed with functional activities using the CRA system, covering one-time registration of Aadhaar number against Nodal Office User ID, authentication of Aadhaar Mapping to Nodal Office User ID, status view for Aadhaar Mapping, and procedure for regular (Aadhaar-based) access to the CRA system.

6. Performance of NPS Activities: Government and autonomous bodies must implement Aadhaar-based login and authentication in the CRA system for NPS operations.

FAQ

Q1: What are the benefits of the two-factor authentication feature?

A1: The two-factor approach significantly reduces the risk of unauthorized access to the CRA system, safeguarding NPS transactions and protecting the interests of both subscribers and stakeholders.

Q2: How can I log into the NPS using two-factor authentication?

A2: To log into the CRA system with two-factor authentication, users need to visit the NPS website, click on ‘Login with PRAIN/IPIN’, enter their user ID and password, and complete the Aadhaar authentication process by entering the OTP sent to their registered mobile number.