Digital Payments

Universal Mobile Payments

Several mobile payment methods, like Apple Pay, are prevalent and continue to be developed. Apple Pay functions nearly identical to EMV except wirelessly, offering the same protections. Apple Pay relies on a wireless protocol called NFC. Not all cards can be linked to Apple Pay; the card provider must enter into a monetary agreement with Apple first. Since the card data is stored in the phone itself, requiring a fingerprint to unlock, Apple Pay is considered the most secure mobile payment method.

Other NFC payment options include Android Pay (previously Google Wallet) and Samsung Pay. These products store card data on the Internet, unlike Apple.

Store-specific Mobile Payments

Other companies, such as Walmart and Starbucks, have developed apps with varying levels of security that can be used on a mobile device at checkout which rely on the phone's camera (and potentially Internet connection) to process payments. Again, card and bank account data is stored on the Internet which elevates risk.

Contactless Payments

Some EMV Cards are issued with secure, wireless capability, known as ExpressPay (American Express), PayWave (Visa), PayPass (MasterCard), Zip (Discover). These function nearly identical to Apple Pay, Android Pay, and Samsung Pay. Look for a contactless 'wave' logo on cards & payment terminals.