TikTokers Warns Dangers Of Connecting Bank Accounts To Digital Payment Apps

Illustration of Apple Pay (photo: dock. apple support)

JAKARTA - Millions of people around the world store their credit and debit cards on smartphones to reduce the need to bring too many physical cards. However, a video on TikTok warns that users should not connect their bank accounts to digital payment apps such as Samsung Wallet and Apple Pay.

TikTokers, Dean and Alexis, who provide financial advice on their accounts, urge users to simply connect their credit cards. They warn that if someone steals your phone, they can access stored information to send money to themselves - which in the end can drain your bank account.

"The loss of mobile phones is often equivalent to losing wallets in the modern era," reads Verizon's warning on its website. "PHONEs include your credit cards, contact information, calendars, personal photos, and social media accounts, among other personal data. If your phone falls into the wrong hands, a lot of valuable information can be disseminated or exploited."

Dean and Alexis posted a video suggesting viewers to remove details of bank accounts from payment systems on your devices, including Google Pay, Apple Pay, and even apps like Starbucks.

"Don't connect your check account," Dean said when asked if Apple Pay was a safe payment method. "Connect your credit card there. If you want to be safe, remove your debit card from there."

The video includes a response from a user who posted: "My cell phone was stolen and they sent 700 US dollars through Apple Cash."

While it's unclear how the user lost money, the only way it could happen is if the thief was able to bypass their iPhone code.

Apple states that their digital payment system is "safer than using credit cards, debits, or physical prepaid." This technology company is taking extra steps by encrypting data so that your card information is not actually in iCloud.

Samsung also requires users to authenticate each transaction and not store payment information on the server. Account details are not stored on the device or shared with traders.

With a credit card, users can easily refuse costs before processing. However, bank transfers are usually instant - so thieves can bring your money in an instant.

While Dean strongly opposes connecting bank accounts to digital wallets, TikTok viewers argue that it is the safest option.

"I'm a cybersecurity engineer, I would recommend using payment methods like Apple Pay," said a John total security user. "It's very safe. With a physical card, the store gets your card number. Apple Pay generates a single-use card number that even if stolen, can't be used anymore," replied another clip audience.

However, other TikTok users support Dean's advice. "I've been using Apple Pay for years without a problem. I agree, don't connect debit cards or check accounts," wrote one viewer. "I agree 100%," added another.