Google Pay, used to be called Google Wallet, until it merged with Android Pay in January 2018 to create Google Pay. It's a free mobile payment system provided by Google, allowing users to make purchases using their NFC-enabled smartphones, whether in person or through apps and websites.
How to use Google Pay
To start using Google Pay, download the app onto your device and register your Google account. Then, add the payment methods you want to use like a credit card, debit card, or PayPal account to start making purchases with the service. You can use Google Pay wherever the logo is displayed by selecting it as your payment method. Google Pay will also store loyalty cards, boarding passes, and bank cards in a single location.
Google Pay Safety
Google Pay uses various methods to keep your transactions safe and secure:
- A unique virtual account number is generated for each transaction.
- You have to unlock your screen for every purchase.
- Google stores all payment data on secure servers, ensuring that your full card or account details are never stored on your device or shared with merchants; instead, a virtual account number is used.
- In case of a lost or stolen phone, Google Device Manager allows you to remotely lock the device, set a new password, or erase personal data.
Google Pay Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Google Pay doesn't store or share your credit card numbers. Your information is securely stored on Google's servers, and temporary virtual cards are provided for transactions.
- You can make payments with just your phone or smartwatch without having to carry your cards with you.
- You can keep all your store loyalty cards, like your Boots Advantage Card or your Costa Rewards Card stored in one place.
- Vendors will never have access to your banking details.
- Google Pay uses one-time security codes for transactions, making it challenging for hackers.
- Google Pay allows remote blocking and requires a PIN or fingerprint authentication for access, making it harder for thieves to hack.
Cons:
- Not all banks and retailers support Google Pay, at the moment
- Google Pay only works on NFC-enabled smartphones, and may not be available on older devices.
- It is optimised for Android, so may not work as well on Apple devices.
Google Pay and Online Casinos
To deposit at online casinos with Google Pay, just follow these steps:
- Visit the casino's Deposit/Cashier/Banking page.
- Tap on the eWallet logo to open Google Pay.
- Enter the desired deposit amount.
- Choose your preferred payment method (PayPal, credit/debit card).
- Submit the payment request using TouchID or security code.
- The deposited amount will instantly reflect in your online casino balance.
Google Pay ensures security by not sharing banking details with the casino and encrypting all transactions with unique temporary numbers. Plus, it's fee-free for deposits.As for withdrawals, it usually takes 0 to 72 hours to process Google Pay withdrawals, check to make sure your chosen casino supports both deposits and withdrawals using Google Pay as some only allow you to deposit.