Absa has introduced a new feature at its ATMs that allows customers to tap and go with their cards. This move aims to streamline transactions and address the growing issue of card theft at ATMs across the industry.
By incorporating tap-and-go capabilities, Absa hopes to significantly reduce the time it takes to complete ATM transactions. On average, this new feature is expected to save customers up to 12 seconds per transaction.
Additionally, it has the potential to deter incidents of card theft, which have become a widespread concern in the industry. The tap-and-go functionality will also help decrease the occurrences of card retention due to hardware or power failures, as well as card jamming.
Absa plans to activate this technology on 900 ATMs this year, with a focus on locations in Gauteng and the Western Cape. These areas are expected to have higher initial usage rates, but the bank intends to expand the distribution of this feature across other provinces in the near future.
Tshiwela Mhlantla, the Managing Executive of Physical Channels at Absa Everyday Banking, emphasized the importance of enhancing customer experience and safety during transactions. Mhlantla stated, “We are excited to be launching this option to the benefit of our customers. One cannot underestimate the difference a saving of a few seconds makes at the ATM.”
To utilize the tap-and-go feature, Absa customers simply need to tap their Absa bank cards, equipped with Near Field Communication (NFC) technology, on the designated card reader at the ATM. Customers will notice a recognizable logo indicating the tap function. While the physical insertion of the card is not necessary, customers are still required to enter their PIN for added security.
In addition to the tap-and-go capabilities, Absa is taking steps to ensure uninterrupted ATM services, even during power outages. The bank is implementing large-scale deployment of solar-ready uninterrupted power supply (UPS) devices, which offer an average uptime of 12 hours. This proactive approach will allow customers in both urban and remote areas to access ATM services during load shedding and general power failures.
With the integration of tap-and-go functionalities and the implementation of UPS devices, Absa is making significant strides in improving the accessibility, convenience, and security of its ATM services. By embracing these contemporary trends and technologies, the bank is positioning itself as a forward-thinking institution that prioritizes the needs and safety of its customers.
FNB (First National Bank) is another bank which has had this feature for sometime now.
Share your thoughts on this article and join the conversation on Twitter or Facebook.
