“Touch payment (contactless payment)” allows you to complete payment at the cash register in an instant. In recent years, it has become more common to see it in TV commercials and store logos, but there are probably many people who have never used it. This time, we will explain its charm and practicality in the form of answers to common questions that beginners tend to have.

Q1. What is so good about touch payments in the first place?

**A. Overwhelming speed, safety and hygiene. ** Compared to traditional credit cards, where you have to insert your card into a terminal, enter a PIN number, or sign your name, payments can be completed by simply holding your card or smartphone over a dedicated terminal. The payment process completes in less than one second with a beeping sound, so there is no need to rush even if there are people waiting in line behind you. Additionally, since there is no need to hand over your card to a store clerk, the risk of your card number being intercepted or skimmed is greatly reduced, and hygiene concerns are also alleviated.

Q2. Where can I use it? Isn’t there still a shortage of places available?

**A. Actually, it is already available in most everyday situations. ** It has been installed at major convenience stores (Seven-Eleven, Lawson, Family Mart, etc.), major supermarkets such as Aeon and Ito-Yokado, drug stores such as Matsumoto Kiyoshi, and even restaurants such as McDonald’s, Saizeriya, and Sukiya. If there is a “ripple mark” (radio wave mark) that looks like a Wi-Fi mark turned sideways at the store or near the cash register, you can use it at that store.

Q3. What is the difference from QR code payment?

**A. The difference is that there is no need to launch the app and it can be used offline. ** QR code payments require you to unlock your smartphone, launch the app, and display the barcode, but with smartphone touch payments (Apple Pay or Google Pay), you can complete the payment by simply holding your smartphone over it, even if the screen is dark. Another advantage is that payments can be made without problems even in underground stores where communication signals are difficult to reach.

Q4. I’m worried about unauthorized use if I lose it.

**A. It is safe because a PIN number is required for payments over a certain amount. ** Touch payments are very easy, but when making high-value payments over 10,000 yen, you will be required to enter your PIN or sign on the terminal, just like you would with a regular card payment. Even if you lose your money, the risk of your money being used fraudulently is reduced.

In order to enjoy a speedy and safe daily life, please check the “Ripple mark” on your card and try touch payment on your next purchase.