May 13, 2016 / Security
Good news: the latest mobile wallet technology is making it safer and easier to shop. If you’re all about being able to leave the house without stuffing your pocket with your debit and credit cards, it’s time to try a mobile wallet app.
All you have to do is enter your Utah First debit or credit card information into an app like Google Pay, Samsung Pay, or Apple Pay. Once you’re done, you can leave the cards at home and use the app to make purchases at a variety of retailers. Not all retailers can accept mobile wallet technology yet, but the list of stores that do is growing each day.
You can also use Google Pay and Apple Pay to pay when checking out within another app on your phone.
Yes, Your Card Data Is Secure.
So just how safe is it shop with mobile wallet technology? Very. All three of these apps work via NFC (near-field communication) technology. NFC is a more secure way to shop because it uses tokenization, meaning that encrypted tokens are transmitted over the airwaves instead of your debit or credit card data, keeping that information protected.
Samsung Pay can also be used more traditionally: you can hold the phone near a regular credit card swipe machine if the terminal you’re using doesn’t have NFC technology. This method isn’t quite as secure as NFC, but it’s just as secure as swiping your debit or credit card in a traditional payment terminal.
Mobile Wallet Apps Are Fast and Convenient
Once you’ve set up the apps, payment is quick and easy. Both Google Pay and Apple Pay automatically activate when your phone is near a terminal. You simply provide payment authorization with your fingerprint.
Samsung Pay requires one extra step: you’ll need to swipe from the bottom of your phone screen to bring up the app, then authorize the purchase with your fingerprint.
Ready to give your mobile wallet a try? Setup just takes a few simple steps.
How to Get Started With a Mobile Wallet App
Google Pay
For any phone with NFC technology that runs on 4.4 KitKat or later
Click here to see the list of retailers who accept Google Pay.
Samsung Pay
For any later-model Galaxy phone
Because Samsung Pay can be used like a regular debit or credit card, it is accepted at most retailers.
Apple Pay
For iPhone 6 or 6 Plus and later
Click here to see the list of retailers who accept Apple Pay.
Want more tips for simple, secure finances? Talk to us. The financial pros at Utah First can help you set up your mobile banking, automatic bill pay, and more. Chat online, call us at 800-234-0729 or visit your nearest branch today.