Think Paying with Your Phone Isn't Safe? Think Again.

If you've ever hesitated to add your Ripco Debit Card or Ripco Cash Rewards Visa® Card to your phone, you're not alone.

For many people, the idea of paying with a phone instead of a physical card feels a little strange. After all, is it really safe?

The answer may surprise you.

In many ways, using a digital wallet like Apple Pay® or Google Pay™ can actually provide an extra layer of security while making everyday purchases faster, easier, and more convenient.

Your Card Number Stays Protected

One of the biggest advantages of using a digital wallet is that your Ripco Debit Card or Ripco Cash Rewards Visa® Card number isn't shared with the merchant when you make a purchase.

Instead, your phone uses a unique digital number that's connected to your device to complete the transaction.

Think of it as using a secure substitute for your card number.

The merchant receives the information needed to process your purchase, but your actual card number stays protected. If a retailer ever experiences a data breach, your real card number wasn't the one used during your digital wallet transaction.

Your Phone Adds Another Layer of Security

When you tap to pay, your phone doesn't simply hand over your payment information.

Before the purchase is approved, you'll verify it's really you using security features already built into your device, such as:

• Face ID or facial recognition
• Your fingerprint
• Your device passcode or screen lock

Unlike a physical card, someone can't simply pick up your phone and start making purchases. Your device's built-in security adds another layer of protection between your money and anyone trying to use your card.

Fast, Convenient, and Contactless

Security is important—but convenience doesn't hurt either.

With Apple Pay or Google Pay, there's no need to dig through your purse or wallet at checkout.

Simply:

• Look for the contactless payment symbol.
• Open your digital wallet.
• Verify it's you.
• Hold your phone or smartwatch near the payment terminal.

Tap. Pay. Done.

Digital wallets can also make online shopping easier by allowing you to check out in many apps and participating websites without entering your card information every time.

What Happens If You Lose Your Phone?

This is one of the questions we hear most often.

The good news is that your payment information is protected by your device's built-in security features. Apple and Google also provide tools that can help you locate, lock, or secure your device if it's ever lost.

And remember, your Ripco Debit Card or Ripco Cash Rewards Visa® Card number isn't stored or shared with merchants the same way it is when you hand over your physical card.

Of course, if you ever believe your Ripco card or account information has been compromised, contact us right away. We're always here to help.

Ready to Give It a Try?

At Ripco, we're always looking for ways to make everyday banking easier, more secure, and more convenient for our members. Digital wallets are one more way to help you bank with confidence.

Your Ripco Debit Card and Ripco Cash Rewards Visa® Card can both be added to supported digital wallets, including Apple Pay and Google Pay.

Once your card is added, you'll be able to make fast, secure, contactless purchases wherever digital wallets are accepted.

After all…

You're probably already carrying your phone. Why not let it carry your wallet, too?

If you'd like help getting started, stop by any Ripco branch or contact us. We'd be happy to help you add your Ripco card to your digital wallet and answer any questions along the way.