Restrictions imposed on bank applications for Uzbeks abroad

Recently, Uzbeks living abroad have been facing a number of problems when using banking applications. This was reported by Zamin.uz. 

In particular, when changing phones or reinstalling the application, users are required to re-verify their identity. However, since this process can only be carried out within the territory of Uzbekistan, difficulties arise for citizens abroad.

In addition, banks send verification codes only via phone and have not implemented sending them via email. This situation causes additional inconvenience for customers abroad.

According to the Central Bank, these restrictions were introduced to strengthen cybersecurity. Due to the increase in fraud cases related to bank cards in recent years, starting from September 2024, first-time access to banking applications or registration on a new device is mandatory to be done only within the territory of Uzbekistan.

At the same time, users who have previously registered can continue to use banking applications abroad. According to Davron Abdulloyev, Deputy Head of the Central Bank’s Cybersecurity Center, this measure is necessary to prevent fraud cases.

Banks have established 24-hour call centers to assist customers and created the possibility of identity verification via videoconference in special cases. However, users abroad complain due to SMS codes being sent only to Uzbek phone numbers and the lack of verification options via email.

Economist Botir Qobilov criticized this problem and proposed abandoning SMS verification and introducing email and push notifications. According to experts, the strict geographic restrictions applied to banking services in Uzbekistan cause inconvenience to users.

Security can be ensured while maintaining convenience using modern technologies. For example, methods such as adaptive authentication, identity verification via video, and the use of biometrics can be effective solutions.

The Central Bank, in cooperation with KPMG, has started extensive analyses to study international experience and is developing recommendations to improve banking infrastructure and cybersecurity systems. This process is expected to be completed during 2025.