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Consumer Social Intelligence Report 2023

Key Topics

Philippines    |   01 Aug 2023 - 30 Sept 2023

Consumer Social Intelligence Report 2023

Payment methods

Payment Methods

Security and convenience drive preference for app-based banking over branch visits.

2.6k

Posts

This chart shows the number of posts from the main search query that mention specific payment methods and the % of conversations related to each method. Shares/RT are included.

Takeaways

  • Credit card discussions saw a 16% increase in volume in August – September, compared to May–June, with nearly 1.5K mentions. They made up 57% of all Payment Methods discussions.

  • The increase in credit card post volumes was due to an uptick in discussions on forums and Reddit, where conversations were livelier than on Twitter due to the long-form format. Users sought advice on how to use credit cards with a focus on transaction security. Concerns were raised about the absence of PIN requirements, and users favourably compared credit cards with debit cards, highlighting their superior security features.

  • Customers’ feedback to banks emphasised the need for convenient security protocols. They appreciated automatic transaction blocking in the event of suspicious activities, but some frustration was also expressed, especially concerning subsequent fees and payment difficulties. Users found direct contact with banks burdensome and urged them to integrate practical alternatives, such as the option of in-app card locking and unlocking.

  • When choosing a bank, foreign nationals living in the Philippines value convenience, minimal bureaucracy, low costs, and secure online currency transfers. Some suggested choosing local branches of the banks they use at home, but others pointed out approval challenges and differences in services and security measures. Consequently, they recommended using the more versatile e-wallets and online banks alongside traditional bank accounts.

Trending/fading words and phrases – Payment Methods from August ‘23 – September ‘23​

Fading

Trending

This word cloud shows the most common words and phrases from the time period. The larger the word/phrase, the more often it appeared over time. Words/phrases on the left are "fading" (used less) and those on the right are "trending" (used more).

What People Are Saying

"I was in your position years ago. I didn't like using credit cards and preferred cash. However, because I was also sceptical and fearful of using a debit card for online transactions, it became inconvenient. (…) It also adds an extra layer of protection against fraud since it's a credit card, unlike when you use your debit card, where everything can be compromised if your data is stolen.
If you have more messages or need further assistance, please feel free to share, and I'll be here to help. "

"You are having a good night's sleep, but then when you wake up, you see 60-plus unknown transactions from other countries on your credit card. What happened?"

"I'm at my wits end  with my bank’s Online Banking mobile app and website.

The freaking app requires a password with a special character which the freaking website CANNOT and WILL NOT accept!"

"Sharry, I experienced this about a month ago with the same merchant. I just filed for a reversal with my bank. Nearly 14k was deducted from my account, but it was also reversed after about a week or almost two." 

Consumer Social Intelligence Report 2023

Payment methods

Fraud Types

As technology advances, consumers fear emerging threats to credit card security.

1.3k

Posts

Chart displays fraud risk types and their percentage of conversation in posts related to the main search query. Shares/RTs included.

Takeaways

  • Card loss or theft was the most prevalent concern in Fraud Types conversation, accounting for 41% of posts and mentions. Users sought advice from banks on card handling and highlighted the risk of thieves obtaining card data . Phone loss was also a concern due to mobile transaction authorisations, prompting suggestions to enhance SIM card security.

  • Identity theft/phishing discussions were also prevalent at 38% of all mentions. They focused on data theft by impersonating financial institutions through various channels, such as social media, phone calls/SMS and emails. Users cautioned each other against divulging any personal data, PINs, or One Time Passwords (OTPs) to unauthorised sources.

  • The discussions about card loss and identity theft indicated a rise in generic/other fraud, which suggests the emergence of novel threats. In one tactic, scammers tricked online sellers into refunding fake overpayments or paying a fraudulent fee under the guise of supposedly upgrading to a business account. The business account fraud was facilitated by an email impersonating PayPal, which prompted users to “upgrade to a business account” to facilitate their transactions. Aware of risks associated with fake payment receipts, consumers might avoid direct bank transfers or platforms they do not trust. Many preferred established methods such as credit cards and gateways with robust fraud protection. SMS and e-mail notifications or in-app confirmations after a transaction seemed to enhance consumer trust by verifying genuine payments and adding extra security.

  • Consumers expressed concern about the fraudulent use of advanced technologies, such as AI-powered deciphering of credit card data. Typically, scammers initially transferred minor amounts to test the card’s validity. These trial transactions escalated into more significant losses if not detected in time. Users shared their experiences to raise awareness, urging issuers and customers to remain vigilant about suspicious transactions.

  • Concerns emerged about sweeper bots in finance and cryptocurrency forums, which automatically detect and steal funds from vulnerable digital wallets. According to the discussion, they pose the greatest threat to cryptocurrency users. However, automated tools designed to exploit vulnerabilities can target various online ecosystems and become a concern for anyone making online payments. People sought knowledge and advice about the new threat. Recommendations included using hardware wallets, avoiding questionable downloads, and safeguarding sensitive personal information.

Trending/fading words and phrases – Payment Methods from August ‘23 – September ‘23​

Fading

Trending

This word cloud shows the most common words and phrases from the time period. The larger the word/phrase, the more often it appeared over time. Words/phrases on the left are "fading" (used less); those on the right are "trending" (used more).

What People Are Saying

"Be careful next time. Cover your CVV. If you're worried that it might be misused, I know you can request a replacement for your debit/credit card. Some people are just rude; they see it, but they still meddle."

"Digital wallets literally say never to share your OTP when they send the OTP. The message also pops up when you enter your MPIN on the App."

"Scammers seem to use every opportunity to deceive people. That's why the reputation of e-wallets and other financial services can suffer due to their actions."

"I haven't experienced this yet, so I decided to search for what this sweeper bot is. This is the automatic transfer of funds from one wallet to another. It's very troublesome, especially if the affected wallet has tokens staked in DeFi, as your savings are almost guaranteed to be gone. Thank you for making me aware of this and how to combat it."

Consumer Social Intelligence Report 2023

Payment methods

Fraud Prevention

The SIM Registration Law is seen as a vital step in addressing cybercrime, but further actions are expected.

0.5k

Posts

Chart shows consumer protection actions and % of related conversation. Share/RTs included.

Takeaways

  • In the Fraud Prevention conversation, 70% of posts focused on data privacy. When customers posted questions on social media, banks referenced the Data Protection Act and directed them to more secure channels. They also conducted educational campaigns emphasising the importance of data protection.

  • In the conversation about fraud response, a government agency called for increased funding to combat cybercrime after someone identifiable fell victim to scammers. This sparked a social media debate, with some praising the drive for stronger law enforcement and deeming the SIM Registration Law insufficient. Others argued that current security measures were adequate and those who shared OTPs were simply unknowledgeable.

  • A government agency revealed that it is very easy to register a SIM card using fake ID, which raised questions about the recently introduced SIM Registration Law.

  • Banks and e-wallet providers educated users about a range of issues including the dangers associated with devices that give a user unrestricted control over all device functions and software. Consumers often do this to customise their devices, but that compromises their security. Advice was shared in customer-focused campaigns and through answering consumers’ questions on social media.

Trending/fading worads and phrases – Fraud Prevention from August ‘23 – September ‘23​

Fading

Trending

This word cloud shows the most common words and phrases from the time period. The larger the word/phrase, the more often it appeared over time. Words/phrases on the left are "fading" (used less) and those on the right are "trending" (used more). 

What People Are Saying

"Telecom companies rake in billions every year, yet they can't seem to invest in Artificial Intelligence (AI) to prevent unauthorised SIM card registrations. It's as if SIM card registration holds no value. Just a reminder, cyber security should be a top priority for management."

"Every bank is reliable and safe. Just go for the big banks."

"Contact or visit the nearest authorised device service centre to have your device checked and ensure that it is in proper condition."

"Avoid using jailbroken devices to avoid losing your device's security features. This is necessary to protect the account against scammers and viruses."

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