Security of NFC mobile payment

A 3rd usage revolution is gradually taking hold in the European telecoms market, thanks to cell phones incorporating NFC (Near Field Communication) technology. Among the many possible services, contactless cell phones are set to make their mark in ticketing and proximity payment.

For its part, the SEPA (Single Euro Payments Area) project identifies security as a key factor in the success of a single, integrated euro payments area. The security of e-payments and mobile payments remains a major concern. Anything else would be an obstacle to the future growth of commerce, particularly with regard to customers who need to "have confidence".

The volume of payments made by cell phone is currently the fastest-growing, thanks in part to the rise of smartphones and their ability to install applications.

The latest studies estimate that the value of m-payments will exceed 100 billion USD by 2015, i.e. almost 10 times more than today .

Consumers are frequently alerted by the press to fraud and incidents involving the misuse of electronic payment data.

Today, security requirements focus on fraud prevention. The protection of personal data is a second important aspect, both for customers and for legislators, who are keeping a close eye on all these developments. It is important that the new uses bringing flexibility and ergonomics to customers do not jeopardize the protection of their privacy – sine qua non condition for their adoption.