Payment methods have been evolving at a rapid pace, following technological transformations and new consumer habits. Although some entities, such as the Spain Bank, reinforce that physical money continues to be widely used, digital payments, such as Contactless (without PIN), are gaining more and more space in consumers’ daily lives.
The Role of NFC Technology
The technology known as NFC, or Near Field Communication, is at the base of most of the non -contact payments currently made, refers to Executive Digest. With this functionality, simply approach a bank card, a mobile phone or a smartwatch from an automatic payment terminal to complete a purchase. In many cases, it is not necessary to enter the PIN code, especially for lower values.
This innovation has allowed to make payments faster and more convenient for both consumers and traders. The speed of completion of purchase has been pointed out as one of the great advantages of this form of payment.
Risks that accompany modernization
However, not all consequences of payments digitization are positive. The same technology that facilitates the purchase process has been explored by fraud schemes that take advantage of poorly -attentive failures or behaviors.
According to The simplicity of payment without contact has become a gateway to discreet but effective theft techniques that have generated a growing number of victims.
Fraud with portable terminals
One of the most commonly used methods by criminals involves the use of portable automatic payment terminals, refers the same source. The scheme is usually executed in spaces with large circulation of people, such as shopping centers, public transport or busy streets.
The attacker brings the payment terminal closer to the victim’s pocket, backpack or wallet. If the contactless technology card is close enough, payment is automatically processed, without visual or sound alerts.
The absence of authentication
According to the same source, this type of fraud is possible due to the characteristic that allows low value purchases without the introduction of the PIN code. The process is fast, silent and can go unnoticed for hours or days. Many victims only realize what happened when consulting bank movements and identify transactions that they do not recognize.
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Ways to protect
Although the scheme seems simple, there are several ways to prevent this type of fraud. One of the most effective measures is to set a maximum limit for non -contact payments. Most banking institutions allow you to define a value from which the system requires the introduction of PIN, making it difficult to action criminals.
Another practical measure is to store multiple NFC technology cards together in the same wallet. This proximity creates interference in reading the signals, preventing the terminal from being able to pay in isolation.
Deactivation of Contactless
For those who use little this functionality, disabling payments without contact can be a safe alternative. Many banks provide this option through mobile application or customer support service.
PHYSICAL PROTECTION WITH RFID WALKS
There are also physical protection solutions, such as the use of wallets with RFID signal blockers. These wallets are manufactured with materials that prevent communication between the card and terminal, such as aluminum or carbon fiber. They are especially recommended for those who go to places with high flow of people.
Technology with utility guaranteed
Despite existing vulnerabilities, approximation payments remain a useful and secure tool as long as it is accompanied by basic care. The adoption of good practices by consumers can significantly reduce the risk of fraud.
With the constant evolution of payment methods, information and prevention are the main allies of those who want to take the best party from technology without compromising the safety of their finances.
Some banks and financial institutions have begun to implement real -time notifications as a way to reinforce security in contactless transactions. This functionality sends an immediate warning to the user’s mobile phone whenever a payment is made, allowing a quick response in case of suspicious movements. In addition, certain bank applications already include the possibility of blocking and temporarily unlocking the card, offering greater control to the holder.
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