Contactless payments offer a fast and easy way to pay for goods in-store, but is it really as safe as they claim, and how can you keep yourself safe when using contactless?
Sections
The big contactless payment fraud myth
Contactless “skimming” is a fraud risk
Lost and stolen cards can still work months after cancelling
What about ApplePay and Google Wallet?
Keep yourself safe from contactless fraud
Contactless payments offer a convenient way for consumers to pay for goods but, like most technology, come with a handful of security concerns that everyone should be aware, but not scared, of.
With that in mind, here are some top tips to help keep yourself safe from contactless-based fraud:
- RFID-blocking wallets, or a few sheets of thick tinfoil, will block any wireless signal from leaving your wallet without your knowledge;
- Some banks offer non-contactless cards to their customers, but you have to ask. Contactless is very much the standard issue these days;
- Using systems like ApplePay and Google Wallet give an extra level of security when paying and don’t transmit your card details without your consent;
- Report any cards that are lost or stolen immediately to your bank, and keep an eye on your bank statement for suspicious transactions.