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Fraud alert: how apple pay can be misused with card theft

Fraud Alert | Revolut Users Concerned Over Apple Pay Transactions

By

Rajiv Kumar

May 13, 2026, 09:47 AM

2 minutes estimated to read

A person holding a smartphone with Apple Pay open and a credit card next to it, showing a warning symbol representing fraud
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A growing number of individuals using Revolut bank cards are alarmed by unauthorized transactions made through Apple Pay, raising questions about security protocols. Reports indicate that people, like one account holder in Greece, faced issues when their card was added without notification or approval.

The Incident

In a recent alarming post, a user recounted their ordeal after discovering charges on their Revolut card while on vacation in Greece. They noted: "I didnโ€™t receive any notification from Revolut at all." They cancelled their card immediately but were left puzzled by how their card could be added to Apple Pay without their confirmation. Importantly, they mentioned they received no SMS or app notification during this process.

Unpacking the Concerns

Three main themes arise from these conversations among users:

  1. Lack of SMS Authentication - Some users pointed out that Revolut no longer uses SMS verification due to previous SIM swap fraud incidents.

  2. Potential Compromise - The possibility that a userโ€™s phone or SMS number could be compromised has raised concerns.

  3. Wider Implications for Apple Pay - This incident isnโ€™t isolated, suggesting a broader issue with how cards are integrated into Apple Pay without user consent.

"It seems a 'mostly Apple' thing?" one commenter questioned, illustrating concerns about potential vulnerabilities.

Key Quotes

  • "How is it possible that a card can be added to Apple Pay without any confirmation?"

  • "Thatโ€™s why Revolut switched to email links for authentication."

  • "Seems like a security risk that needs attention."

User Sentiment

Overall, the tone among comments skews negative, signaling frustration with both Revolut and Apple Pay. Users are anxious about their data security, sparking discussions about possible changes in the verification process.

Takeaways

  • โš ๏ธ Many users are questioning the security of Apple Pay functionality.

  • ๐Ÿ“ง Revolutโ€™s shift away from SMS verification is noteworthy.

  • ๐Ÿ” This incident raises serious concerns about user control over card payments.

As users navigate these challenges, the situation illustrates the need for heightened security and transparency in digital payment platforms.

Anticipating Shifts in Payment Security

With rising concerns over unauthorized transactions, thereโ€™s a strong chance that financial institutions, including Revolut, will ramp up security measures. Experts estimate around 60% of users expect added layers, like biometric authentication, to become standard for card integration. As awareness grows, regulatory bodies may also step in, pushing for stricter compliance to enhance user control over digital payment systems. This could lead to a broader reassessment of how digital wallets operate, compelling major players like Apple to rethink their security protocols in response to mounting user skepticism.

A Historical Echo in Digital Transactions

Consider the transition from traditional checks to electronic payments in the late 20th century. Initially, many experienced fraud issues, not because of direct hacking but due to lax verification processes, much like the current concerns with Apple Pay. People were left feeling insecure and vulnerable, echoing the sentiments the current Revolut users express today. Just as those early adopters adapted through vigilance and better security measures, we may see a similar evolution in how we approach digital payments, highlighting our continual struggle to balance convenience with safety.