Is a phone transfer really safe? The BLIK system, which enables such transactions, is gaining importance in Poland. However, as its popularity increases, questions arise about the safety of this solution. We will try to dispel any doubts that may arise.
Is a phone transfer safe?
As this payment method becomes more popular, the question arises whether a transfer to a phone is safe? This type of transactions, carried out using the BLIK system, are considered a very safe solution. This is due to several factors such as:
the need to authorize transactions in the bank's mobile application;
use of one-time BLIK codes;
use of tokenization technology;
introduction of limits by banks.
However, it is important that users themselves follow basic security rules, such as not disclosing BLIK codes to third parties or regularly monitoring transaction history. Although the system has a number of safeguards, caution and vigilance on the part of users are important to minimize the risk of unauthorized transactions. Transfers to your phone provide convenience and speed, but safety also depends on the responsible use of this service.
BLIK system security
As mentioned earlier, the BLIK system has a number of safeguards designed to protect users against unauthorized transactions. One of them is the need to confirm each transaction in the bank's mobile application. In addition, BLIK uses tokenization technology, which replaces sensitive data, such as the card number, with a unique string of characters. Thanks to this, even if such sensitive information is intercepted, it will be of no value to a potential criminal.
So, is a phone transfer safe? This is certainly one of the most reliable ways to transfer money. However, this does not mean that fraudsters will not try to bypass security. Here the "weakest link" is man.
Fraud protection
Although the BLIK system is considered safe, this does not mean that it is completely immune to fraud attempts. Criminals may try to extort BLIK codes from users by impersonating bank employees or other trusted institutions. That is why it is so important to be vigilant and careful when using telephone transfers. You should not provide BLIK codes to third parties, even if they pretend to be employees of a banking institution. It is also worth setting transaction limits and regularly checking the history of operations in the banking application.
Methods used by fraudsters
Fraudsters use various methods to obtain the BLIK code and, consequently, steal money from the victim's account. One of the most popular is the "online friend" scam. The criminal hacks into a social media account and, impersonating the owner, sends messages to his friends asking for an urgent loan, explaining the sudden need, e.g. lack of cash for shopping or paying a bill. The fraudster asks for the BLIK code, promising a quick refund.
Another method is for a criminal to pose as a seller or customer service employee on e-commerce platforms. The fraudster sends a link to a fake website where you can supposedly order a courier or collect payment for the sold item, but in fact he extorts data and money. Criminals also impersonate loved ones, claiming that they have lost their wallet or phone and urgently need cash. Therefore, you should always be vigilant and personally verify whether the request to send the BLIK code actually comes from the person the interlocutor claims to be.
How does the BLIK system work?
BLIK is a Polish mobile payment system that was launched in 2015. It is based on cooperation between banks and Polski Standard Płatności. To use BLIK, all you need to do is have your bank's mobile application and be a smartphone user. BLIK transactions involve generating a one-time 6-digit code that is used to authorize payments. This code is valid for 2 minutes and can be used for payments in online and stationary stores and for ATM withdrawals.
What is worth knowing about the security of phone transfers?
Transfers to your phone using the BLIK system are a convenient and safe solution. Thanks to the security measures used, such as one-time codes and tokenization, the risk of unauthorized transactions is minimized. However, even the best security measures cannot replace common sense and caution of users. Following basic security rules, such as not sharing BLIK codes or regularly monitoring transactions, will allow you to fully benefit from the benefits of transfers to your phone.