In a breakthrough initiative aimed at enhanced security and convenience, face authentication technology will be used from 2025 onwards for applications by members of the Employees’ Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO). This pioneering project intends to facilitate easy access, strengthen identity verification, and ensure speed of service delivery to an excess of 6 crore EPFO members all over the country.
The EPFO has confirmed face authentication as a major method for verifying member identity against several online services such as KYC detail updation, claim submission, pension processing and other related requests. This technological upgrade aims to eliminate the need for presence or manual documentation verification, thereby reducing delays and improving the member experience.
How It Works
Members can download the EPFO mobile application or log in to the EPFO portal to perform face authentication on their phones or PCs through mobile app or webcam. The system will make a comparison of the live facial scan with the photograph available in Aadhaar records. Once confirmed, members can smoothly access EPFO services without OTP, biometric devices, or physical visit to offices.
Some Important Services Covered Under Face Authentication:
- Online claim submission (withdrawal, transfer, pension)
- KYC already updated and verified
- Grievance redressal services
- Pensioners’ life certificate (Jeevan Pramaan) submission
- Changes of e-nomination
Profits For EPFO Members
The face authentication feature is expected to minimize fraud and impersonation and eliminate data mismatches. It ensures a keenly hassle-free paperless experience for senior citizens, differently-abled persons, and pensioners for whom physical verifications are very cumbersome. This initiative is further in sync with the government’s vision of Digital India, where services can be accessed remotely with minimal documentation.
Points To Bear In Mind:
- Members should keep Aadhaar details and photographs updated and clear.
- Authentication requires a smartphone with a functional camera or any other device.
- In the case of authentication failures, members could implement alternate methods until the resolution of the problems.
Conclusion
EPFO’s introduction of face authentication signifies a huge technological leap in the management of pensions and provident funds. It will facilitate easier access, quicker processing, and better security for millions of workers and pensioners alike. The members are motivated to register for their face authentication in time to ensure they are not inconvenienced while accessing EPFO services.
Also Read: Unified Pension Scheme 2025: Eligibility, Payment Schedule For RS 10,000 Pension