Development of a Digital Lending App (DLA) Registry Verification tool for consumer awareness

• Apr 29, 2026
• 2 min

FACE engaged MSC (MicroSave Consulting) to design and pilot a technology-enabled consumer protection solution to address the growing risks posed by unlicensed and fraudulent digital lending apps (DLAs) in India. MSC developed a DLA verification and information portal that enables consumers to validate the legitimacy of lending applications and access key information before use.

The tool is built on publicly available regulatory data, primarily the Reserve Bank of India list of DLAs deployed by regulated entities. It allows users to search by app name or URL and uses intelligent matching to identify the closest verified entries. The system returns authenticated links to the application across platforms such as app stores and websites, enabling users to distinguish legitimate apps from potentially fraudulent ones.

In addition to validation, the tool provides structured, user-friendly information on each DLA, including associated loan service providers (LSPs), regulated entities (REs), and grievance redressal details. This enhances transparency and equips users with the necessary information to make informed decisions and seek recourse where required.

MSC designed the portal with a simple, consumer-facing interface accessible via web, ensuring ease of use for first-time and low-literacy users. The solution also includes a cleaned and standardized dataset of DLAs, which can be searched, viewed, and downloaded. The dataset is periodically updated to reflect changes in the regulatory registry and ensure continued accuracy.

The system was developed through an iterative, user-centric process that included data cleaning, backend matching logic, and interface design. MSC worked closely with FACE to define requirements, test functionality, and refine the solution based on usability and performance considerations. Post-deployment, MSC supported enhancements to improve matching accuracy, strengthen data reliability, and ensure smooth functioning.

As a subsequent enhancement, the solution includes the capability to generate an aggregated dashboard based on the DLA dataset. This provides a consolidated view of ecosystem-level indicators such as the number of DLAs, distribution across LSPs and regulated entities, and platform availability. By transforming fragmented regulatory data into structured insights, the dashboard supports ecosystem monitoring and informed decision-making.

The tool has been integrated into FACE’s website to enable access for consumers and stakeholders, contributing to reduced exposure to fraudulent applications and strengthening trust in the digital lending ecosystem.