Karachi, September 28, 2025: The State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) has clarified the rationale behind the two-hour cooling period applied to digital funds received in branchless banking wallets and accounts, a measure first introduced in April 2023 to curb fraud and enhance customer security.
According to the central bank, while digital fund transfers are processed in real time and instantly credited to recipients, customers using branchless banking wallets and accounts cannot access the funds immediately. Withdrawals, mobile top-ups, and online purchases are only permitted after a two-hour delay.
The SBP explained that the measure applies exclusively to branchless banking wallets because their account opening and user verification processes are comparatively simple, creating greater vulnerability to fraudulent transactions.
“The two-hour cooling period acts as a safeguard, giving customers an opportunity to detect and report suspicious activity before funds are withdrawn or misused,” the central bank said in its statement.
It added that the guidelines are already proving effective, with the buffer period offering customers stronger protection and control over their money in cases of unauthorized transfers.
