The digitization that society is immersing itself in has brought about a change in the way payments and economic transactions are conducted. In fact, more and more people are choosing to use mobile applications or online platforms that allow them to make any type of payment without having to use cash or physical cards. Still, we must take into account the advice of the Bank of Spain, since it can see some things that have changed and make us say goodbye to ATMs.
One of the aspects that we must consider when using ATMs is the costs involved. As reported by the Bank of Spain, banks can charge commissions for transactions made with these devices, provided they inform the customer beforehand of the amount to be charged and the concept itself. Once the option is pre-presented to the customer, they decide whether to accept it or not.
Likewise, it must be taken into account that the commissions may vary depending on the bank that owns the ATM and the entity that issues the card. In general, commissions are lower or eliminated when we use an ATM operated by our own bank or one of its affiliated banks. However, if we use another provider’s ATM, higher commissions could apply.
On the other hand, you also need to know the conditions that banks set for using ATMs. Some may even require a minimum withdrawal amount or limit the number of free transactions per month. Others may offer benefits such as a partial commission refund or the ability to withdraw money without a card using a code sent to the mobile device.
The technology arriving in Spain
Although ATMs have expanded in recent years to include a contactless option to work with a credit card without having to insert it into the machine, many businesses want to update them to be compatible with NFC (Near Field Communication) technology make.
This short-range wireless communication technology enables data transfer between electronic devices when they are in close proximity to each other. Two devices that are compatible with NFC technology are required for NFC technology to work properly.
How to get money with nfc
- Open the application where you have your card (the bank, Google Wallet, etc.).
- Enable NFC in your phone’s settings (many phones still don’t support this technology).
- Bring your mobile device near the ATM without contact and hold it for a few seconds.
- Enter your PIN number as if it were a regular credit card and proceed as usual.
This option is and remains just as safe as any other, although using this method with NFC technology will force you to be much more conscious with your mobile phone. In the hypothetical case of theft, you must block all the cards inside before it’s too late.
