Online Transfers in Austria Increasingly Popular

According to an AK study, younger people are expected to prefer digital payment methods, but online transfers have also become established among older groups. "Not everything is running smoothly," warned Gabriele Zgubic, head of AK consumer policy. "People want and need protection. Banks and payment service providers should close security gaps and ensure real freedom of choice between digital and analog payment methods."

Online Transfers Score with Simplicity, Speed, and Convenience

According to an AK survey by Makam Research, the majority of Austrians - 93 percent - make online payments at least sometimes. Accordingly, every second respondent - more men than women - has already concluded a bank or insurance contract online. 88 percent of the study participants repeatedly pay with debit or credit cards, and 77 percent occasionally use online payment services like Klarna, Apple Pay, or Amazon Pay, which play a rather marginal role. The age group over 70 has few points of contact with this. The positive aspects of online banking mentioned are simplicity, speed, and convenience. Negative reasons cited - especially by those over 70 - include the high risk, complexity, and lack of data protection.

Online Fraud as a Central Problem

Problems due to online fraud, phishing, and incorrect transfers were identified as central study results, according to Zgubic. Accordingly, 18 percent of the study participants - equivalent to 1.4 million Austrians - have had problems with online transfers. The two most common causes in all age groups are incorrect transfers, fraud, and attempted fraud. At the top of those affected by fraud and attempted fraud - for example, through fake online shops - are the 20-29-year-olds with almost 60 percent. Among respondents aged 50 to 70, this result is significantly lower, as older bank customers are more cautious about fraud, according to the AK.

Among older people, especially those aged 60 to over 70, the problem of "phishing" - that is, data theft, such as obtaining access data to accounts or bank connections - is increasing. The problem of "excessively charged fees" particularly affects the 30- to 39-year-olds above average. The AK suspects that this age group, in particular, makes transfers outside Europe, which can be fee-intensive. About three-quarters of the respondents suffered damage of up to 600 euros. "The most important thing is prevention," so that fraud attempts cannot occur in the first place, according to the AK consumer policy head. She sees a particular need for action by banks and mobile phone companies.

(APA/Red)

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