Be careful with mobile payments, NFC technology is a risk for your pocket.

Nowadays, it is common to use a mobile phone or card to pay by simply making a short contact with the phone to transfer data. This technology, called NFC, can be a double-edged sword for unsuspecting users. because they may be subject to financial theft if they do not pay attention to the payment reader screen.

This is because customers using this method usually do not check the card screen when paying, the Bank of Spain reports. This practice is risky, as the amount and account from which the transfer will be made are shown at this stage. If ignored, the user may be charged an incorrect amount.

Additionally, if you are a victim of fraud, if the merchant intentionally overcharges, pays from the wrong account, has multiple linked accounts or cards, and does not confirm that the transaction was completed correctly, which may result in duplicate charges or incomplete payments.

Paying with a mobile phone or card using NFC technology is safe if the user verifies the payment-related information on the phone. According to the Bank of Spain’s 2023 habits study, a common mistake that users usually make is not checking the screen of these financial devices.

Another tip shared by the financial institution for making NFC payments, whether via mobile or card, is to request a physical receipt to prove that the payment is for the amount of the product or service purchased.

It is also important to pay attention to mobile notifications that inform you when a transfer is made.

For its part, cybersecurity company ESET shares a number of specific recommendations for making secure payments using a mobile phone or card using the NFC method.

• Download banking apps only from official app stores.such as Google Play Store or Apple App Store to avoid installing malicious software that could compromise payment security.
• Always update your mobile device’s operating system and apps. Updates often include security patches that protect against vulnerabilities and threats.
• Use strong and unique passwords to protect your mobile phone. If possible, enable two-factor authentication and use passwords that contain letters, numbers, and symbols for added security.

• Regularly check notifications and bank accounts for any suspicious or unauthorized activity. If a user notices anything unusual, they should immediately report it to their financial institution.
• Install an antivirus or security app to protect your phone from malware, viruses, and other cyber threats.

NFC (Near Field Communication) payments allow you to quickly conduct financial transactions by holding a device, such as a mobile phone or card, to a compatible reader. This technology works through short-range wireless communication between two devices equipped with NFC chips.

• Contactless payments: NFC is primarily used to make contactless payments in stores, restaurants and other retail outlets, enabling quick transactions without the need for cash or physical cards.
• Convenience and speed: simplifies the payment process by eliminating the need to enter PINs or sign receipts, reducing time in queues.
• Safety: offers an additional level of security by using tokens and encryption to protect financial information, reducing the risk of fraud.
• Versatility: In addition to payments, NFC technology can be used to access public transportation systems, share files, connect devices, and more.