RBI extends the scope of tokenisation to include consumer devices like laptops, desktops, wearables etc.



Quick Summary
The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has announced an expansion of its card tokenisation policy. Previously limited to mobile phones and tablets, tokenisation services will now be available for a wider range of consumer devices, including laptops, desktops, wearables, and other Internet of Things (IoT) devices. This move aims to bolster the safety, security, and ease of card transactions for consumers.

Tokenisation - Card Transactions : Extending the Scope of Permitted Devices

RBI/2021-22/92
CO.DPSS.POLC.No.S-469/02-14-003/2021-22

August 25, 2021

The Chief Executive Officer / President
All authorised card networks

Madam / Dear Sir,

RBI Expands Card Tokenisation to Laptops, Wearables

Tokenisation - Card Transactions : Extending the Scope of Permitted Devices

We invite reference to our circular DPSS.CO.PD No.1463/02.14.003/2018-19 dated January 08, 2019 on 'Tokenisation – Card transactions', permitting authorised card networks to offer card tokenisation services to any token requestor, subject to the conditions listed therein. The facility was available only for mobile phones and tablets of interested card holders. There has been an uptake in the volume of tokenised card transactions during the recent months.

2. On a review of the framework and keeping in view stakeholder feedback, it has been decided to extend the scope of tokenisation to include consumer devices – laptops, desktops, wearables (wrist watches, bands, etc.), Internet of Things (IoT) devices, etc. All other provisions of the circular referred to above shall continue to be applicable. This initiative is expected to make card transactions more safe, secure and convenient for the users.

3. This directive is issued under Section 10 (2) read with Section 18 of Payment and Settlement Systems Act, 2007 (Act 51 of 2007).

Yours faithfully,

(P. Vasudevan)
Chief General Manager

FAQ :

Tokenisation is a process that allows authorised card networks to offer card tokenisation services, replacing sensitive card details with a unique token for transactions.

The scope has been extended to include consumer devices such as laptops, desktops, wearables (like wrist watches and bands), and Internet of Things (IoT) devices.

Previously, the facility for card tokenisation was only available for mobile phones and tablets.

The extension is expected to make card transactions more safe, secure, and convenient for users.

This directive was issued by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI).




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