Can they empty your virtual wallet just by bringing an NFC payment device close?

A viral video raised alarms about payments with NFC technology and the security of virtual wallets. But is it really possible for someone to take your money just by getting close with another device?

NFC (Near Field Communication) is a short-range technology that allows data exchange between nearby devices. It's used in contactless payment systems like SUBE, Apple Pay, Google Pay, and Samsung Pay.

Stealing money just by getting close with a phone

For an NFC payment to be completed from a digital wallet, the phone must be unlocked. Additionally, the user must authorize the transaction with a PIN, fingerprint, or facial recognition.

Without this authorization, the phone doesn't transmit the necessary information for the charge.

How secure are virtual wallets?

Mobile payments have multiple layers of protection, such as the use of unique codes for each transaction. This prevents data from being intercepted or fraudulently reused.

Additionally, many apps automatically block the function if they detect suspicious activity.

What about contactless cards? Are they just as secure?

Contactless cards can process payments when brought close to a reader, without prior unlocking.

This has facilitated some isolated cases of skimming or cloning, although they are rare and require specific equipment.

In contrast, smartphones add user authentication and encryption, which greatly complicates any theft attempt.

Key tips to protect your digital wallet

• Keep your phone locked with a PIN, pattern, fingerprint, or facial recognition.
• Enable authentication on all payment apps.
• Don't bring your phone close to unknown or suspicious devices.
• Update the operating system and apps to always have the latest security patches.