

In February, a single mention of mobile wallets in a report by the Financial Conduct Authority, referring to ‘uncertainties around our regulatory parameter’ led to newspapers reporting that mobile payments would not be covered by consumer protections, despite mobile payments receiving the same protection as the cards connected to them.

Now mobile payments using Apple Pay, Google Pay and Samsung Pay are becoming the subject of similar security fears – some founded on reality, but many not. There has, however, never been a verified report of this actually happening – while some apps can reveal card numbers and expiry dates, the crucial security code (CVV) remains hidden. Yet, despite their convenience, contactless payments have been dogged by concerns over security.įor years, it was rumoured that criminals could ‘skim’ your card and steal your money, simply by standing next to you with a card reader.

It’s been possible to pay with a swipe of your card for 13 years, and with your phone since 2015.
