Your digital wallet holds more than just payment cards. It stores your banking details, shopping information, and personal data all in one place on your phone. That convenience is precisely what makes it a target for scammers and thieves.
The good news is that with a few smart habits, you can enjoy the speed of “tap-to-pay” without putting your money or identity at risk. Here’s how to keep your digital wallet secure.
- Lock Your Phone. Think of your phone like your actual wallet. If it’s lost or stolen, you don’t want anyone getting inside. Use a strong PIN, fingerprint, or facial recognition, and avoid predictable codes to unlock your phone (e.g., birth year or 1234). A locked phone makes it much harder for someone to access your wallet.
- Use Trusted Payment Apps. Only use well-known digital wallets such as Apple Pay, Google Wallet, or Samsung Pay, and download them from the official app store. Avoid third-party payment apps you don’t recognize, and verify the developer’s name before downloading an app to your phone.
- Turn On Transaction Alerts. Set up instant notifications for every transaction you make, which will help you spot suspicious charges quickly. Additionally, pay attention to minor “test” charges that scammers often use before making larger ones. The faster you catch a problem, the easier it is to fix.
- Keep Your Software Updated. Turn on automatic updates for your phone and wallet app, which may also include security fixes. You should also restart your device regularly so updates install fully. Outdated software can leave your wallet vulnerable.
- Watch Out for Phishing Scams. Fraudsters may send fake texts or emails pretending to be from your bank or payment app—never click on these links. If you’re unsure, log in directly through your bank’s website or official app. Scammers rely on urgency to get you to act without thinking, so take a moment to verify before responding.
- Avoid Public Wi-Fi for Payments. Public Wi-Fi networks are often unsecured and risky. Use your mobile data or a VPN when making payments in public, and skip unknown or “free” networks unless you can confirm they’re safe. A secure connection keeps your payment details out of the wrong hands.
- Remove Old Cards. It’s a good practice to check your wallet every few months to keep only active, current cards. Delete any cards you no longer use from your digital wallet. Fewer stored cards mean fewer chances for fraud.
- Add Purchase Authentication. Use fingerprint, face scan, or a passcode to confirm every transaction you make with your digital wallet, and skip one-tap payment settings without confirmation. This quick step adds strong protection if your phone is ever stolen.
- Check Your Account Regularly. Even if you have alerts enabled, reviewing your account activity is still important. Use mobile banking to look over your transactions weekly and report anything unfamiliar right away—call 405-755-1000 to report issues with your Quail Creek Bank account. Quick action can stop further fraudulent charges and improve your chances of recovering funds.
Stay One Step Ahead of Digital Wallet Threats
Your digital wallet makes everyday payments quick and easy, but it’s only as safe as the habits you keep. Lock your phone, use trusted apps, watch for scams, and review your accounts often. A few simple precautions can help you enjoy your digital wallet while keeping your money and personal information secure. To learn how you can link your Quail Creek Bank debit or credit cards to your digital wallet, click here.
