State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) ordered banks to complete Biometric verification of all bank accounts till June 30th. Despite continuous reminders and warnings a large number of accounts remained unverified after which different banks are launching mobile app.
It is being considered that many people are not completing the Biometric verification because of distant bank branches, time issues and other similar reasons.
Banks believe that by offering verification process from the comfort of home will reduce the work load on staff of the branch & can facilitate the customers.
Currently three banks have launched such applications which you can download from Google Play Store:
1) Standard Chartered Biometric Verification App
2) Meezan Bank Biometric Verification App
3) Bank Alfalah Biometric Verification App
It is expected that other banks will also launch similar apps for verification of their customers to reduce the number of unverified account which SBP may ask to block or freeze.
Previously the Biometric verification method was limited to bank branches and ATM machines.
This Biometric verification system has been possible with associated of National Database & Registration Authority (NADRA). When the applicant provides the thumb impression the app connects it with the data base of NADRA and then confirms it.
The app can also be downloaded by overseas Pakistanis for verification of their Bank accounts in Pakistan.
Update: After objection from NADRA this facility was discontinued.