How to Have a More Secure Mobile Payment Experience

Today’s smartphones can be used for so much–cameras, phones, web browsers, even mobile payments. And while mobile payments can be more convenient—and in some ways safer—than other payment forms, here are a few best practices that could help you have an even more secure mobile payment experience.

• Use a safe, trusted platform. If you’re going to add your payment information in your phone, use the software that came with your phone or a trusted payment provider.
• Use strong password protection. If you have any payment information on your phone, it is crucial to have it protected by a strong passcode or password.
• Lock your phone remotely if it’s lost or stolen. You can use Android Device Manager to lock or locate a lost or stolen cell phone by going to android.com/devicemanager. You can do the same for an iPhone by going to iCloud.com. And for a Windows device, go to windowsphone.com.
• Don’t send information through public wi-fi. Any information passed through public wi-fi is accessible to everyone else who can access that wi-fi. You’re safer using your phone carrier’s cellular network or your home’s password-protected wi-fi.
• Use a credit card and monitor credit card accounts. Credit cards have much better fraud protection than debit cards. Check your credit card transactions often. Watching your account will allow you to detect any suspicious charges quickly.

Although there is no sure fire way to protect yourself completely, taking these steps when using mobile payments can make it that much harder for your personal information to get stolen. And here at Sente, we are always happy to talk with you and answer any questions you have about keeping your financial information safe.