The State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) has recently introduced a mandatory 2-hour cooling-off period for mobile wallet accounts, including Easypaisa and JazzCash. This new rule has created a lot of discussion among users who rely on mobile banking for instant money transfers, online shopping, bill payments, and business transactions.
In this complete 2025 guide, we explain what this new SBP rule means, why it was introduced, how it affects users, and what you should do to stay safe from scams and fraud.
What Is the New 2-Hour Cooling Time Rule?
In 2025, the State Bank of Pakistan announced that any new beneficiary (receiver number) added to a mobile wallet app—such as Easypaisa, JazzCash, Upaisa, Nayapay, Sadapay, or bank apps—will be subject to a 2-hour cooling period.
This means:
- You cannot send money to a newly added number instantly.
- The transaction will be delayed for 2 hours after adding that number to your beneficiary list.
- After 2 hours, you can transfer money normally.
This rule applies to all mobile accounts, not just Easypaisa and JazzCash.
Why Did SBP Introduce This Cooling Time?
SBP implemented this security feature due to a sharp increase in:
- Mobile wallet fraud
- SIM swap attacks
- Fake call scams
- Unauthorised beneficiary addition
- Stolen phones accessing wallets
- OTP fraud and social engineering scams
Criminals often trick users into sharing PINs or OTP codes and then add new numbers to transfer money instantly. With the new 2-hour delay, victims get enough time to:
- Realise suspicious activity
- Contact the bank
- Block the account
- Reverse the transaction
The core purpose:
To protect customers from unauthorised transactions.
How the 2-Hour Cooling Time Works
When you add a new number to send money, the system follows these steps:
1. Add Beneficiary
You enter someone’s mobile number or bank account number.
2. System Places Time Lock
Easypaisa, JazzCash, or any other app shows a message:
“This is a new beneficiary. You can transfer money after 2 hours.”
3. Temporary Restriction
No money can be sent to that number during the cooling period.
4. Automatic Activation
After exactly 2 hours, the recipient becomes active in your beneficiary list.
5. Normal Transactions Begin
Now you can send any amount without restrictions.
Which Apps Are Affected by the SBP Cooling Rule?
The new rule applies to all digital wallets and banking apps in Pakistan, including:
- Easypaisa
- JazzCash
- Nayapay
- Sadapay
- Upaisa
- Zindagi Wallet
- HBL, UBL, MCB banking apps
- Meezan Bank, Allied Bank, Bank Alfalah apps
- All branches of microfinance banks
In short, every financial platform must follow the SBP instructions.
How Does This Rule Affect Easypaisa Users?
Easypaisa users will experience the following changes:
- Money cannot be sent instantly to newly added contacts
- Merchant payments are not affected
- CNIC-to-CNIC transfers may also show restrictions
- Business accounts must also follow the rule
- Users must wait for the cooling period, even during emergencies
However, once the number is saved permanently, future transfers remain instant.
How JazzCash Users Are Affected
For JazzCash:
- Customer-to-customer transfers face a time delay
- Bank transfers via JazzCash are also delayed for new accounts
- Payments to verified merchants are allowed instantly
- IBAN transfers will only activate after 2 hours
This change mostly affects freelancers, small businesses, and digital marketers who frequently add new clients.
Benefits of SBP’s 2-Hour Cooling Policy
Although some users find the delay inconvenient, the security benefits are significant.
1. Strong Protection Against Fraud
Hackers cannot instantly move money once they gain access.
2. Time to Report Suspicious Activity
Victims can call their bank helpline and freeze transactions.
3. Reduces Social Engineering Scams
If a scammer tricks you, the money cannot be transferred immediately.
4. Makes Wallets More Secure
Easypaisa and JazzCash become more reliable and safer for long-term use.
5. Encourages Safe Digital Banking Practices
Users will be more aware of account access and beneficiary management.
Weaknesses or Disadvantages of This Rule
While the rule is important, it does have drawbacks:
1. Emergency Transfers Delayed
If you urgently need to send money, you must wait 2 hours.
2. Trouble for Businesses
Merchants and freelancers who frequently deal with new clients may face delays.
3. Increased Waiting Time for First-Time Payments
Online sellers, grocery stores, and local services may lose customers due to delays.
4. No Override Option
Even verified users cannot skip the cooling period.
However, SBP believes the safety benefits outweigh these inconveniences.
How to Avoid Delay When You Need Instant Transfers
Here are some ways to reduce inconvenience:
✔ Add beneficiaries in advance
If you know you’ll be sending money, add the number before the time.
✔ Keep frequently used numbers saved
Once added, the cooling rule won’t apply again.
✔ Use merchant payment options
Verified merchant accounts do not require a cooling time.
✔ Use bank-to-bank IBAN for known contacts
IBAN transfers usually don’t require adding again.
✔ Keep backups like ATM, bank app, or card payments
You won’t rely on a single mobile wallet.
Is This Rule Permanent?
Yes. According to SBP’s 2025 policy update, this rule is mandatory and will remain in effect indefinitely. Financial institutions must comply to ensure user safety.
Any bank or wallet failing to implement it may face penalties.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Is everyone affected by the 2-hour cooling time?
Yes, all users of Easypaisa, JazzCash, Nayapay, Sadapay, and bank apps.
2. Can I turn off this restriction?
No. SBP, not the mobile wallet, controls it.
3. Will old beneficiaries be affected?
No. You can instantly send money to previously saved recipients.
4. Does this apply to QR payments?
No. QR merchant payments work normally.
5. Why is SBP controlling mobile wallets?
To reduce fraud and enhance consumer protection.
Conclusion
The SBP 2-hour cooling time policy is a major change for Easypaisa, JazzCash, and all digital banking apps in Pakistan. Although it brings delays in sending money to new recipients, it significantly improves security and minimises fraud risks.
