Month: June 2017

Don’t waive the wave

wave

In Malaysia they are trying to phase out signing when you use a credit or debit card, in favour of using a PIN number. But below a certain figure, RM250 in Cold Storage, for example, you can just wave your card over the reader to pay.

As there are CCTV cameras everywhere – some that would see the number you punch in if you use a PIN, I would prefer to use the wave payment instead, as it would be more secure. Alternatively, check around for CCTV cameras first to see if you can input the PIN securely.

But don’t forget to use cash – if you don’t use it you’ll lose it as banks (and their governments) would prefer to go cashless – then everyone is a captive customer, and they’ll be able to charge you for having an account instead of paying you interest.  And, of course, it gives governments almost total control over you, as if you don’t cooperate, they simply freeze / confiscate your electronic money – and you won’t be able to buy or sell any more – including useful things like food.