GOOGLE has introduced a new verification feature that Android users can use in the Wallet app that can help prevent bank attacks.
It basically lets users choose whether to lock the bank cards in their Google Wallet behind a fingerprint ID or a PIN, and it’s available starting today.
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This acts as an additional line of defense against thieves who have stolen the device.
Or, it can speed up transactions.
“Choose whether to have to verify that it’s you when you use your items stored in Wallet,” Google says.
“You will confirm using a device lock setting, such as a fingerprint or PIN.”
Criminals stealing phones are nothing new.
But with all the information stored on smartphones these days, such as credit card information, pickpocketing can be incredibly expensive.
Thieves will actively try to break into the device to access the victim’s money and personal information.
It comes with another new Google Wallet rolling out in some countries that requires unlocking the device for touch payment transactions – regardless of the amount.
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In some countries, you don’t need to unlock the device for “smaller payments”, ranging from a threshold of €25 in Belgium to €50 in Germany.
Android owners can only make a limited number of locked transactions before their phone prompts them to unlock it – to avoid a thief making a purchase with your cash.
But in the US and other countries, “Unlock is required for all transactions except transportation” – just like on the iPhone.
How to use the new Google Wallet lock
According to 9to5Google, all Android owners need to do is follow these steps:
- Open Google Wallet
- Tap your profile picture
- Select Wallet Settings
- Go to the new Security tab
- Open the verification settings
- Here you will find a payment in transit option that allows you to change your confirmation settings
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