What is MTU and Why is it Important?
Starting January 1, all bank users must activate the Monto Transaccional del Usuario (MTU) tool. This security measure sets a personalized limit on each digital banking transaction, following a three-month adaptation period that ends on January 1. The regulation, driven by the National Banking and Securities Commission (CNBV), aims to reduce online fraud, thefts, and scams which have increased by over 50% in the last five years, according to the National Commission for the Protection and Defense of Financial Services Users (Condusef).
Who is Affected by MTU?
MTU applies to individual users and transactions involving third-party accounts. This includes payments to friends, family, or suppliers; rent or credit card payments for spouses, siblings, or in-laws. It does not affect corporate banking or transactions between personal accounts within the same bank. As a digital regulation, MTU does not impact cash withdrawals at the counter or credit/debit card purchases in physical or virtual stores.
How Does MTU Work?
MTU is set per transaction, though some banks may offer daily, weekly, or monthly limits. It applies to mobile app, online banking, phone (voice), and audio response banking operations. The suggested amount by the regulation is 1,500 Udis (approximately $13,000 pesos), but the actual amount depends on individual transaction history and bank practices.
Can Users Adjust MTU Limits?
Yes, users can modify MTU limits 24/7 without cost through banking apps or in-branch. There are no penalties for not adjusting MTU, but banks will set limits if users don’t activate it by 2026.
Key Questions and Answers
- What is the MTU limit based on? The suggested amount by regulation is 1,500 Udis, but the actual limit depends on individual transaction history and bank practices.
- Who is MTU applicable to? MTU applies to individual users and transactions involving third-party accounts. It does not affect corporate banking or personal account transactions within the same bank.
- Can users change MTU limits? Yes, users can adjust MTU limits anytime without cost through banking apps or in-branch.
- Are there penalties for not adjusting MTU? No, the regulation does not specify any penalties; however, banks will set limits if users don’t activate MTU by 2026.
- Is there a minimum MTU limit? No, users can set MTU to zero or adjust it as needed.
Expert Opinion
According to experts, the primary goal of this measure is to enhance security against growing digital fraud. Ultimately, users decide the transaction limit, while banks can only propose suggestions.
