How Safe is it to Use Apple Pay and Google Pay
If you've thought about getting set up with a digital wallet through Apple Pay or Google Pay but have questions about security, we've got answers. Using a digital wallet is a safe, secure, and convenient way to pay at thousands of businesses. Read on to learn how it works and get started!
Is Apple Pay Safe for Debit Cards
Yes, it is. Apple Pay is safer than using a physical card because it uses biometric data to make purchases. Also, Apple Pay doesn't share any of your actual information with the companies you buy from using Apple Pay. More on all of this below!
Is Google Pay Safe for Debit Cards
Yes, it is. Google Pay is considered safer to use than a physical card because it requires a PIN to make purchases. Just like Apple Pay, Google Pay doesn't share any of your information with the companies you buy from when you use Google Pay. Read on for more details!
How the Digital Wallet Works
Your card information is securely stored and is never shared with the stores, restaurants, and other companies you buy from. Instead, your card information is encrypted or tokenized. Apple and Google use different but secure methods to keep your information safe and help ensure that your card information is not stolen, even if the company you buy from experiences a data breach.
Contactless Payments and NFC Technology
NFC stands for Near Field Communication, which both Apple Pay and Google Pay use for contactless payments. Because they require proximity to complete a transaction, NFC is considered secure. It's difficult for fraudsters to intercept the communication between your device and the payment terminal because they must be so close to complete the transaction.
Regular Security Monitoring and Updates
Both payment systems are updated constantly to prevent any vulnerabilities in their security. By updating your device and apps, you can take advantage of these security enhancements and be protected from new tactics fraudsters use to steal data.
Fraud Protection Policies
These days, most, if not all, banks allow your debit card to be added to Apple Pay and Google Pay. Because of this, they usually offer strong fraud protection policies. Call your bank directly to report any fraudulent activity so they can investigate the charges as soon as you find out about it. In many cases, you will not be held liable for fraudulent activity.
If You Lose Your Phone, Your Accounts Are Still Safe
While you can access your digital wallet from your phone, whoever steals your phone won't be able to use your card, even if you don't have a code to unlock your phone. This is because biometric data or a PIN is required to make purchases with your digital wallet for every transaction. This makes it more secure than a traditional card, which can be run on credit to bypass a PIN.
Benefits of Using a Digital Wallet
There are lots of benefits to using a digital wallet over a physical card, including:
- Easy and fast checkout
- Convenience of having your entire wallet right on your phone, including debit cards, credit cards, gift cards, and more
- Avoid card skimming devices since you are not swiping a physical card
- No risk of losing your wallet (and all your cards)
Where Can I Use My Digital Wallet
Most places accept payment through a digital wallet—use it wherever you see the contactless symbol.
How to Add Your Card to the Wallet
You can download a digital wallet app to create your digital wallet. Steps are different depending on your chosen digital wallet; WaFd Bank's digital debit cards and credit cards can be used through Apple Pay, Google Pay, and Samsung Pay.
WaFd Bank is Here to Help
No question is too small for our friendly bankers, and with WaFd Bank, you also have access to tools and services to help you manage your finances and get the most from your money, including Voice-Activated Banking. WaFd also offers a variety of checking accounts to fit your needs, plus great-looking debit cards so you can spend in style. Visit us at your neighborhood branch, give us a call at 800-324-9375, or check out what WaFd online banking has to offer.
