In a recent update, Google Wallet for Android introduced a significant feature called “Verification settings,” allowing users to customize security measures when using payment methods and passes stored within the Wallet.
Google Wallet New Settings
With these new settings, users can choose whether they need to verify their identity when utilizing items stored in their Wallet. They can verify their identity through device lock settings such as fingerprint or PIN, providing an additional layer of security.
Accessing these settings is straightforward: users can open Google Wallet, tap on their profile image, and navigate to Wallet settings. Here, they’ll find the new “Security” heading, which houses the Verification settings page. Currently, this page primarily focuses on “Transit payments,” enabling verification before paying for public transportation services like buses or metros with a credit or debit card.
Google clarifies that the system prioritizes transit cards, which never require verification. But if transit cards are unavailable, payers can use their credit or debit card, potentially requiring verification.
Moreover, users have the option to disable the default “Verification required” toggle. When turned off, users won’t need to verify their identity before paying for transit with their default credit or debit card, even when they have locked their phones. However, verification will still be necessary for all other payments made with this card. This feature aims to expedite public transit transactions significantly.
The rollout of Verification settings coincides with version 24.08.12 of Google Play services, with Google Wallet 24.10.x also widely available. This addition follows reports indicating that Google Wallet now mandates device unlocks for tap-to-pay transactions in some countries, irrespective of the transaction amount.
Google Wallet’s new Verification settings offer enhanced control and peace of mind in digital transactions by empowering users to tailor their security preferences. And has the potential of greatly speeding up public transit transactions.