Introduction to MTU Regulation
Starting January 1, 2026, all bank users must activate the Monto Transaccional del Usuario (MTU), a security lock that limits the amount in digital bank transfers. This regulation, driven by Mexico’s National Banking and Securities Commission (CNBV), aims to minimize 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).
What is MTU and How Does it Work?
MTU is a personalized transaction limit set by both banks and users for each electronic operation. As of October 1, MTU has been in effect, but a three-month adaptation period ends on January 1, as per CNBV regulations. During this time, some institutions have already assigned operation limits based on users’ transaction histories.
- Banorte, for example, notified clients that starting December 5, automatic limits of 1,500 Udis (approximately 13,000 Mexican pesos) will be applied.
- If a user wants to make a transfer exceeding this limit, they must adjust the MTU in their bank app or directly at a branch.
The MTU can be modified 24/7 without any cost, as stated by Oscar Rosado Jiménez, Condusef’s president.
Common Questions and Answers
What is the MTU timeframe: operation, day, week, or month?
MTU applies per transaction and not on a daily, weekly, or monthly basis. Some banks may offer this option.
MTU applies to operations conducted via mobile app, online banking, voice banking over the phone, and audio response banking.
Who and for what does MTU apply?
MTU is active for individual users and transactions involving third-party accounts. This includes transfers to friends, family, or suppliers; paying rent or credit card bills for spouses, siblings, or in-laws. It applies to personal banking and not to institutions like Nu or Stori.
Who and for what does MTU not apply?
This regulation doesn’t affect corporate banking or transactions between personal accounts within the same bank. Being a digital regulation, MTU has no impact on cash withdrawals at the counter or credit/debit card purchases in physical or online stores.
What MTU amount will banks set?
The suggested amount by the regulation is 1,500 Udis (approximately 13,000 Mexican pesos). However, the actual amount will vary based on individual user activity and bank policies.
Banks are advised to calculate the average transaction amount of recent months for that user or estimate the average transaction amount for users in the same segment.
Can I change the MTU?
Yes, as often as needed. It’s a cost-free operation that can be done through the bank app in real-time or at a branch.
Will there be penalties for not setting MTU?
No, the regulation does not mention any sanctions. However, users are obligated to set MTU starting 2026; thus, banks will assign the limit if users fail to do so.
Is there a minimum MTU amount?
No, users can set the MTU to zero and adjust it as needed. This prevents unauthorized third-party access to accounts, as unlocking the security lock requires biometric data or passwords.
Is the government trying to control users’ money with this regulation?
No, according to experts. The primary goal of this measure is to provide more security against the rising digital fraud trends. Ultimately, users decide how much to transfer per operation; banks can only propose a limit, but the final decision rests with the user.
