How to use a contactless credit card and keep your payment safe? (2024)

A contactless credit card transaction is nothing but an option to help you make a payment without having to insert your credit card into a swipe machine. You can simply hover your credit card and the payment of a particular amount is done in seconds.

This facility is very useful at places where a large number of customers stand in long queues just to make the payment of their purchases. Contactless credit cards are being widely used at shopping malls, restaurants, petrol pumps and many other public places to immediately complete the payment.

Adhil Shetty, CEO, Bankbazaar.com, says, “A contactless credit card in India works through near-field communication (NFC) technology. When a customer wants to make a payment, they hold their card near a contactless-enabled machine, which is processed wirelessly. It eliminates the need for physical contact, making transactions quicker and more convenient. The customer does not need to enter a pin or sign for transactions up to a certain limit. The card communicates with the terminal using RFID (radio-frequency identification) technology, which is secure and encrypted.”

Benefits of contactless transactions

Quicker transactions: You don’t need to physically sign or enter a PIN for small purchases. So, every time you go to a shopping mall, petrol pump or restaurant, you can simply wave or tap your credit card over a swipe machine and the transaction is done.

Increased hygiene: It reduces the need for physical contact and handling of the card.

Convenience: No need to carry cash or physical card as payments can be made using a smartphone.

Secure: Equipped with security features such as chip technology and encryption to protect against fraud.

Widely accepted: It is accepted at merchants worldwide. No matter where you are and what are you making transactions for, you can easily make your payments anytime anywhere.

How to safely use these cards

It was to get addicted to new technology but you must be aware of the disadvantage that come with it. While activating contactless payment facility, you must be aware of certain safety measures which can protect you from fraudulent transactions. Here are certain tips for you to keep your payment safe.

Keep the card within the maximum range: The maximum range for a contactless payment is typically 4 inches. Keep your card within this range to prevent unauthorised transactions.

Keep your card protected: Keep your card in a secure location, such as a wallet or purse, and protect it from potential skimming devices.

Use an RFID-blocking wallet or sleeve: An RFID-blocking wallet or sleeve can prevent unauthorized access to your card information by blocking the radio frequency signals used for contactless payments.

Keep your card locked: Enable the lock feature on your credit card to prevent unauthorized transactions.

Monitor your transactions regularly: Check your bank statements and transactions regularly to ensure that there are no unauthorized purchases.

Be wary of suspicious behaviour: Be wary of individuals or devices that seem out of place or suspicious, as they may be attempting to steal your card information.

Keep software up-to-date: Regularly update the software on your card and device to ensure that the latest security measures are in place.

Notify your bank immediately: If you suspect that your card has been stolen or that your information has been compromised, notify your bank immediately.