Facebook’s instant messaging service WhatsApp has introduced digital payments service in Brazil.

The system will allow WhatsApp users in the country to send money to individuals without leaving the chat. The payment service will also enable the users to make purchases from local businesses.

Currently, the WhatsApp payment service supports debit or credit cards payments from Banco do Brasil, Nubank and Sicredi on the Visa and Mastercard networks. The payments are processed through Cielo, a credit and debit card operator in Brazil.

All payments will be authenticated by special six digit PIN or fingerprint to prevent unauthorised transactions.

The service seeks to add new partners in the future.

Customer payments made through WhatsApp will be free, while the merchants will pay a processing fee to receive payments.

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In a blog post, Whatsapp said: “The over 10 million small and micro businesses are the heartbeat of Brazil’s communities. It’s become second nature to send a zap to a business to get questions answered.

“Now in addition to viewing a store’s catalog, customers will be able to send payments for products as well. Making payments simple can help bring more businesses into the digital economy, opening up new opportunities for growth.”

Notably, Whatsapp is also working to roll out payment service in India. However, it was reported last month that the impending move is being investigated by the Competition Commission of India (CCI).