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What is a Digital Wallet?

A digital wallet is a secure way to store your debit or credit card information on your smartphone, smartwatch or other compatible device. Services like Apple Pay, Google Pay and Samsung Wallet allow you to make purchases in stores, online or in apps without needing to pull your physical card.

Are digital wallets safe? Generally, yes, especially when your device and accounts are properly protected. In fact, AmeriChoice recommends adding your eligible Visa® debit or credit card to a supported digital wallet.

Digital wallets offer a convenient way to pay in stores, online and on the go without reaching for your physical card. But convenience isn’t the only benefit. They also use built-in security features that can help keep your card information protected when you make a purchase.

Why AmeriChoice Recommends Using a Digital Wallet

A digital wallet allows you to securely add an eligible debit or credit card to your phone, smartwatch or another compatible device. You can then use that device to make purchases in stores and at supported websites or apps.

The convenience is easy to see, but what makes a digital wallet especially useful is what happens behind the screen.

It Helps Keep Your Card Number Private

When you pay with a digital wallet, your actual card number is typically not sent to the merchant. The wallet uses a unique digital identifier, often called a token or virtual account number, to process the purchase.

This process is known as tokenization. It helps protect your physical card number by limiting when and where it is shared.

It Verifies That It Is Really You

Most digital wallets require you to confirm your identity before completing a payment. Depending on your device, you may use facial recognition, a fingerprint, a passcode or a wallet PIN.

If someone finds your phone, they normally cannot make a digital wallet payment without getting past this additional step.

It Protects Payment Information

Digital wallets use encryption to protect payment information as it moves between your device, the payment network and the merchant.

Many wallets also provide a confirmation after a purchase. Depending on your card and notification settings, you may receive alerts that make unfamiliar activity easier to catch.

Is a Digital Wallet Safer Than a Physical Card?

A digital wallet offers security features that a physical card alone does not. Someone who finds a lost card may be able to attempt a purchase right away. A digital wallet on a locked device will normally require authentication before a payment can be completed.

No payment method is completely risk free. However, the added verification and tokenization used by digital wallets can provide valuable protection for everyday purchases.

What About Debit and Credit Cards?

Both eligible AmeriChoice Visa debit and credit cards can be added to a supported digital wallet, and both benefit from the same types of wallet security.

The main difference is where the money comes from. A debit card purchase draws from your checking account, while a credit card purchase uses your available line of credit. Because of this, the account impact and process for addressing unauthorized activity may differ.

Whichever card you use, review your account activity regularly and report any unfamiliar transaction to AmeriChoice immediately.

AmeriChoice cards currently support:

• Apple Pay
• Google Pay
• Samsung Pay
• Garmin Pay

You can find more information about eligible cards and supported wallets on the AmeriChoice Digital Wallet page.

What If Your Phone Is Lost or Stolen?

Losing your phone does not automatically mean someone can access your digital wallet. Your device passcode and biometric authentication provide an important first line of protection.

Still, it is important to act quickly. Use your device recovery tools to locate or lock the phone. If you do not expect to recover it, you may also be able to erase it remotely.

You should also contact AmeriChoice, review your recent transactions and change any credentials that may have been exposed.

For VISA Debit or Credit Card assistance, call (800) 240-4364 during business hours or (866) 335-7254 after hours and on weekends.

A Few Smart Digital Wallet Habits

The security built into your digital wallet works best when you also protect your device and accounts. AmeriChoice recommends that you:

• Use a strong device passcode.
• Enable fingerprint or facial recognition.
• Keep your device and wallet application updated.
• Never share verification codes.
• Avoid adding cards while connected to public WiFi.
• Turn on available purchase alerts.
• Review your account activity regularly.
• Watch for suspicious emails and text messages.

These small steps can make a big difference in keeping your information protected.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can Someone Use My Digital Wallet If They Steal My Phone?

A digital wallet on a locked phone normally requires a fingerprint, facial recognition, passcode or wallet PIN before a payment can be made. You should still lock or erase a missing device and contact AmeriChoice as soon as possible.

Does a Digital Wallet Store My Actual Card Number?

Digital wallets typically use a token or virtual account number to complete a payment instead of sharing your physical card number with the merchant.

Is Apple Pay Safe?

Apple Pay uses device authentication, a device specific account number and a unique security code to process payments without sharing your full physical card number with the merchant.

Is It Safe to Use a Digital Wallet Online?

A digital wallet can provide a secure and convenient checkout option on trusted websites and apps. Always verify the website, avoid unsecured public WiFi and watch for phishing attempts before completing a purchase.

What Should I Do If I Notice an Unauthorized Transaction?

Contact AmeriChoice immediately. You should also review your recent activity, secure your device and change any credentials you believe may have been compromised.

Ready to Make the Switch?

A digital wallet does more than make checkout faster. It gives you another way to protect your card information while keeping your AmeriChoice debit or credit card within easy reach.

AmeriChoice recommends adding your eligible Visa debit or credit card to a supported digital wallet so you can pay with added confidence wherever digital wallet payments are accepted.

Visit the AmeriChoice Digital Wallet to get started. You can also explore AmeriChoice Visa credit cards or learn more about AmeriChoice’s checking and debit card options.