SCAN AND PAY

SnapScan, Zapper, Pay@, Masterpass – these are all payment functions that work with an app on your smartphone. You use your phone to scan a QR code, which is a 2D image made up of a number of black squares and dots. Much like a bar code, the QR code is linked to certain payment information.

HOW DO YOU DO IT?

Download the app Apps such as SnapScan and Zapper can be downloaded directly to your phone. You have to input your bank card information then you’re good to go.

They’re usually free. Some banks, such as FNB and Nedbank, already have scanners on their apps to do these transactions. For other banks you can download the Masterpass app. At the pay point Open the app on your phone and give it permission to access your phone’s camera. The camera then scans the QR code. Then choose the card you want to pay with and type in the payment amount.

Depending on the app you’re using, you’ll be asked to authorise the transaction with a PIN, fingerprint or by entering a password. The retailer is notified of your payment and your receipt is stored in the app. Advantages Speed, safety (you don’t carry cash) and convenience. Disadvantage Although the technology works well, you might run into problems if your cellphone’s battery runs out. What’s the cost? There are no extra costs. If there are any, it would be your bank’s regular fees for payment transactions. How do payments reflect on my monthly bank statement? The transaction will start with the payment method (such as SnapScan), followed by the shop name and the amount. For example: SnapScan Pink Shop R55.