Technology has revolutionized the way we handle financial transactions and everyday payments. One of the most significant innovations in this field is NFC (Near Field Communication), a short-range communication technology that allows data exchange between compatible devices. 

What is NFC?

NFC, or Near Field Communication, is a technology that enables wireless communication between devices that are a short distance from each other, usually less than 10 centimeters. 

This technology works through electromagnetic induction between two compatible devices, such as a smartphone and a payment terminal.

How does NFC work?

To better understand how NFC works, imagine the following scenario: you're in line at the coffee shop, ready to pay. Instead of taking out cash or swiping a traditional card, you simply bring your smartphone close to the payment terminal. 

Near Field Communication allows the two devices to exchange information quickly and securely using a specific radio frequency (13.56 MHz).

This exchange of information is extremely secure due to the necessary physical proximity between the devices. Furthermore, the transmitted data is encrypted, which significantly reduces the risk of interception by third parties.

Benefits of NFC for payments

Increasingly integrated into modern daily life, NFC (Near Field Communication) offers a number of significant advantages when it comes to making payments. 

This revolutionary technology not only simplifies the transaction process, but also raises the standards of convenience and security for consumers and merchants.

  • ConvenienceMaking payments simply by bringing your phone close to the terminal is faster and more convenient than using cash or cards.
  • SecurityDue to encryption and the proximity required for communication, NFC payments are considered secure against fraud.
  • Wide acceptanceMore and more businesses are adopting NFC-compatible payment terminals, which increases convenience for users.
  • Integration with applicationsMany banking and digital wallet apps support NFC payments, making it even easier to use this technology in everyday life.

How to activate NFC on your cell phone.

Enabling NFC on your smartphone is a simple process and may vary slightly depending on the device's operating system. Below, we provide a step-by-step guide for the most common mobile operating systems:

Android

  1. Access the settings: Tap the settings icon on your Android smartphone.
  1. Look for “Connections” or “Connectivity”: Depending on the Android version, the options may vary, but you will usually find NFC listed in these sections.
  1. Activate NFC: Tap the switch to enable NFC. If necessary, confirm activation.
  1. Additional settings: Some Android devices offer additional settings for NFC, such as preferred payment methods or security settings. Check the available options to customize them to your needs.

iOS (iPhone)

  1. Access the settings: Open the “Settings” app on your iPhone.
  1. Search for “NFC”: Use the search bar or browse until you find the “NFC” option.
  1. Activate NFC: Tap the switch next to “NFC” to turn the function on.
  1. Additional settings: iOS generally doesn't offer many additional options for NFC configuration, but you can check if there are specific settings for digital wallets or mobile payments.

Using NFC for payments

After activating NFC on your phone, you'll be ready to use this technology to make payments at establishments that accept this type of transaction. The process generally involves the following steps:

  • Unlock your phone.Make sure your phone is unlocked and ready to use.
  • Bring your cell phone closer to the terminal.When prompted by the payment terminal, bring your mobile phone close to the designated NFC area.
  • Please wait for confirmation.The terminal and your mobile phone will exchange the necessary information to complete the transaction. Please wait for confirmation on the terminal screen or your mobile phone.
  • Payment confirmationOnce the process is complete, you will receive a successful payment confirmation.

Security when using NFC

Although NFC is a secure technology, it's important to be aware of some best practices to ensure the security of your transactions:

  • Keep your cell phone safe.Avoid leaving your cell phone unlocked or unattended in public places.
  • Use reliable apps.Make sure that the digital wallet apps or financial services you use are from reliable sources and are up to date.
  • Monitor your transactions.Regularly check your bank account or digital wallet statement to ensure that all transactions are recognized by you.

A secure way to make payments.

NFC offers a convenient, fast, and secure way to make everyday payments without the need for physical cash or plastic cards. Enabling this technology on your mobile phone is simple and can transform the way you manage your personal finances. 

By following the instructions provided to activate NFC and practicing good safety measures, you can take full advantage of the benefits of this technological innovation.

See also: Security guard jobs: 6 companies hiring

July 14, 2024

NFC