Set Up Mexico’s MTU Rule for Your Bank

Mexico — A significant change for bank transfers is now in effect across Mexico. As of October 1, all banks are required to implement the User Transactional Amount, known as the MTU, and their clients must comply with the new regulation.

The primary objective of the MTU's application in Mexico is to improve security for clients, particularly against banking fraud. To help customers meet the requirements, here is a guide on the User Transactional Amount and how to configure the MTU for the online banking platforms of BBVA, HSBC, Banamex, Banorte, Banco Azteca, and Santander. This process will allow users to better control their transactions and avoid inconveniences.

What is the MTU and Why is it Important?

The User Transactional Amount (MTU) is a security measure implemented by Mexico's National Banking and Securities Commission (CNBV). It allows each user to set a limit on the amount of money for their electronic transactions. This limit applies to transfers made through banking apps and online banking, giving users total control over their operations.

Bank accounts that are not configured with an MTU before the September 30 deadline will be subject to special measures. In such cases, the bank will set an automatic limit of 1,500 UDIs, equivalent to approximately 12,500 pesos. This means that if a user needs to make a bank transfer for an amount exceeding 1,500 UDIs, the bank will reject the transaction.

How to Activate the MTU in BBVA

Configuring the MTU in the BBVA application is a straightforward process. The steps to follow are:

• Open the BBVA app and log in with your password, fingerprint, or facial recognition.
• Go to the main menu (three lines in the upper right corner).
• Select the "Configuración" (Settings) option.
• Click on "Límite de Operaciones" (Operation Limits).
• Edit the limits per operation, daily amount, or monthly amount according to your needs.
• Save the changes, and you will receive a code on your cell phone to confirm the operation.

Once completed, the MTU is configured.

How to Activate the MTU in HSBC

The activation of the MTU in HSBC is carried out in the following manner:

• Open the HSBC application and log in.
• Select "Transferir y pagar" (Transfer and Pay).
• Go to "Servicios frecuentes" (Frequent Services).
• Choose "Editar límite por transferencia" (Edit Transfer Limit).
• Modify the amount as desired and save the changes.
• You will receive a verification code on your cell phone to confirm the operation.

With these steps, your MTU will be ready to use.

How to Configure the MTU in Banorte

This is also a simple operation. Just follow this step-by-step guide:

• Log in to the app with your username and password.
• Look for the "Menú" or "Más servicios" (More Services) option within the application.
• Enter "Ajustes Generales" (General Settings).
• Select "límites de operación" (operation limits).
• Choose the card or account.
• Modify the limit: The current configuration of your limits will be displayed. Press the "Modificar" or "Ajustar" (Modify or Adjust) button and adjust the daily amount or the number of operations per day according to your needs.
• Confirm the operation: Once you have established the new limits, the application will ask you to verify the information and enter your authentication key, which could be your password and the dynamic code from your Cell Token.
• Confirmation screen: The system will show you a confirmation screen. You can save or print a receipt of the operation if you wish.

With these steps, you will have configured the MTU in Banorte.

Configuration of the MTU in Santander

To configure the MTU in Santander, follow these steps:

• Open the Santander app and log in.
• Go to "Administración de mis cuentas" (My Account Management).
• Select "Configuración límite importe" (Amount Limit Configuration).
• Set the maximum amount for your movements in each category.
• Save the changes.

With this, the MTU will be configured in Santander and you will be able to carry out your transactions securely.

Activate the MTU in Banco Azteca

This is also a simple process that can be done directly from the application.

• Log in to the Banco Azteca app.
• Go to "Ajustes" (Settings).
• Then go to "Centro de Seguridad" (Security Center).
• Click on the tab that says: "Configuracion de la app" (App Configuration).
• Set the daily amount. In this case, it cannot be set on a monthly basis.
• You will then be asked to confirm it is you with a photo and you will receive a notification.

Steps to Establish the MTU in Banamex

For customers with an account at Banamex, the MTU configuration will be available starting October 1. The bank itself confirmed this to clients who inquired about the topic through social media and even invited users to provide comments on this provision through its website.

Does the MTU Apply to Nu, Mercado Pago, in SOFIPOS or in Fintechs?

Although the User Transactional Amount is a measure that applies to all financial institutions, the Mexican Association of Popular Financial Societies has clarified that this regime does not extend to entities that are not multiple banking institutions. This means that Mercado Pago, Klar, and Nu are not currently obligated to establish an MTU.

In response to its clients, Nu stated: "In accordance with current regulations, the User Transactional Amount (MTU) will apply only to banking institutions. Although Nu received approval for a banking license in April, we have not yet begun operations under the regulatory framework of a Multiple Banking Institution, so this requirement does not apply to us at the moment.

"However, as part of our commitment to comply with all regulatory standards and, at the same time, offer simple, secure, and transparent products, we are already developing this functionality to be available within the Nu app from the first day we begin operations under said regime."

Why is the MTU Important?

Establishing the User Transactional Amount is fundamental to securing your banking transactions and avoiding future problems. Do not let a lack of configuration cause you inconveniences.