Pay mobile: This is how the payment process works
When making mobile payments, the required data is transmitted via radio or barcode. The usual method of using a chip or magnetic strip is no longer necessary.
- Pay mobile : If you want to pay mobile, all you have to do is hold your compatible device or your card close to the corresponding reader at the checkout. You no longer have to insert your debit or credit card into the reader as usual.
- Enable payment process : In order to enable the payment process with your smartphone or smartwatch, you must first make your credit card available to the device. This works by storing your credit card details in an app.
- Payable amounts : You can usually pay smaller amounts up to 25 euros here in Germany without entering a PIN. But: In Germany, the mobile payment method is not yet possible in every store.
- Recognize symbol : You can see for yourself whether your credit card supports mobile payment or not. To do this, there must be four lines on your map that are arranged in waves. This symbol must also be on the reader to support the payment function - there is also a hand recorded next to it.
These mobile payment systems exist
When it comes to mobile or contactless payment , a distinction is made between the three standards NFC card, NFC chip and the payment method via QR code.
- NFC card : The prerequisite for the NFC radio standard is that your credit or debit card is radio compatible. A computer chip and antennas are built into the card, which are read via radio waves from the reader. The system can be used worldwide - the (radio) wave symbol on the card and reader is also the same. In some cases, for security reasons, you will have to enter your PIN even for amounts under 25 euros.
- NFC chip : NFC chips are built into many modern smartwatches and smartphones, so you can also use these devices for mobile payments. To do this, you need a specific payment app, which your bank or mobile payment provider provides, for example. For this function, you usually have to authorize yourself using a PIN or fingerprint when paying.
- QR code : The payment method works via QR code regardless of NFC. All you need is an app that generates a QR code, i.e. a barcode, for the payment process. This is scanned at the checkout by a QR code scanner and the payment process is confirmed.With little effort you can set up your smartphone for mobile payment .
This is what you should pay attention to when making mobile payments
Mobile payment is still a relatively new method and is therefore not yet established in all stores.
- Availability : If you would like to switch to the mobile payment method for your smaller, everyday purchases, check beforehand whether the stores also support your preferred system. To be on the safe side in Germany, please still have cash with you if you want to buy something.
- Updates : All three payment systems mentioned receive regular updates. Be sure to keep the software on your devices up to date to ensure the security of the payment method.
- Protective case : The NFC system is a very secure standard. Nevertheless, it makes sense to keep your credit card in a protective case to prevent the transmission of unwanted radio waves.
- Check billings : Check your direct debits regularly. If statements appear that do not come from you, contact your bank or credit institution immediately.
- Blocking hotline : If you lose your smartphone with mobile payment function or your wireless credit card, you should have your card and your account blocked immediately. You can find the phone number on your credit institutions website. The central blocking emergency number on 116 116 can usually help you and is available 24 hours a day.
- Costs : Mobile payment is usually free of charge - the function of your credit card does not have to be activated first. In exceptional cases, please contact your bank to find out what costs you may incur. Also check whether you need to set up a separate credit account for the debits or whether processing can also be done via your checking account.
Also helpful:
- Contactless payment: security concerns are so justified
- Google Pay - this is how the payment service works
- Paying with the Apple Watch: This is how shopping works
- Pay contactless with EC card - all information
