Choose how to secure your account
Keep your device's operating system updated with latest updates. Think carefully before tampering with the security of your device. Only use known and trusted Wi-Fi networks. Don't share your device unlock code or payment card details with anyone and don't store them on your device.
Your payment info and activity are stored securely with industry-leading encryption. To help protect you during transactions, Google Pay encrypts all of your payments. Important: Virtual cards are created and managed differently for in-store and online or in-app purchases.
Here are some of the most secure payment methods available online:
Because digital wallets use tokenization, they never actually share your card's information when completing a transaction. This makes it impossible for anyone to skim your cards.
Choose how to secure your account
Tap Settings and then Privacy & Security. Slide the button to Enable app lock. To set a PIN, select screen lock or 4-digit Google PIN to set as PIN. To use your existing pattern, PIN, face ID, fingerprint, or password that you use to lock your phone, select Use your screen lock.
Safer transactions
Tap-to-pay technology is more reliable and secure than other forms of payment. The chip technology protects you against any fraudulent purchases through encryption and dynamic data technologies.
PayPal, Samsung Pay, and Google Wallet are strong in this area. Gift cards. Several apps provide a convenient way to combine all your cash or store gift cards.
While a scammer cannot directly access your bank account with just your phone number, the number is a critical tool for fraud. Scammers can execute a SIM swapping scam by tricking your mobile provider into giving them a new SIM card for your number.
Yes, Zelle is safe to use. It works by connecting directly to your bank account through your bank's app or the Zelle app. However, since Zelle transfers are instant and can't be reversed, scammers often target Zelle users with different tricks to get your money.
Disadvantages of Google Pay
Slow payouts: Google Pay doesn't speed things up for merchants. Since it runs on traditional card networks, it usually takes 1 to 3 business days for the money to hit your account—just like with regular card transactions.
Keep Your Account Safe
A screen lock will need to be set up to make secure payments with Google Wallet.
Yahoo! Mail has a blemished history regarding data security and privacy. The massive data breach of 2013, where every Yahoo account was affected, is a testament to the lax security measures in place. That's approximately three billion accounts compromised, making it one of the largest breaches in history.
More Privacy, Less Tracking
Google thrives on data collection, tracking everything from search history and location to emails and voice recordings. By switching to privacy-focused alternatives, I significantly reduced the amount of data I was giving away.
There are always going to be hackers, and tech is only 'unhackable' until somebody hacks it,” Eaton-Cardone explains. “That said, professionals within the financial industry generally regard Google Pay as safe — certainly safer than swiping a card or keying in your information.”
Use your device's baked-in security software to check for malware. Next, download an anti-malware tool to run a more comprehensive scan. Remember, Malwarebytes for Android and Malwarebytes for iOS shield devices from spyware, malware, ransomware, and other threats.
In a Mobile Device Best Practices report, the National Security Agency (NSA) offers tips designed to protect your mobile device from hackers and attackers. Although the report dates back to 2020, its advice remains as sound as ever, if not more so. One method is as simple as turning your phone off and then on again.
Wherever you live and wherever you bank, you could be targeted for fraud and scams.
PayPal. PayPal is a strong competitor of Google Pay as it gives you broad coverage and it isn't locked to Android or Apple devices. Customers can pay through the PayPal app or website on any smartphone, tablet, or computer.
Credit cards. Credit cards are the next most popular online payment method, with the average American having four credit cards. Credit cards offer features like encryption and fraud protection to help keep your personal information secure.
Key Takeaways. As of 2025, PayPal accounts for 45% of the global payments market. PayPal helps keep transactions secure by not sharing financial information with sellers and also monitors transactions 24/7. Popular alternatives to PayPal include Venmo, Apple Pay, Stripe, and Skrill.
The 2/3/4 rule: According to this rule, applicants are limited to two new cards in 30 days, three new cards in 12 months and four new cards in 24 months. The six-month or one-year rule: Some credit card issuers may let borrowers open a new credit card account only once every six months or once a year.
If you've paid for something you haven't received, you might be able to get your money back. Your card provider can ask the seller's bank to refund the money. This is known as the 'chargeback scheme'.
Top 10 safest online payment methods