The Most Common Mistake We Make When Paying by Card — And How to Avoid It"

Learn the simple mistakes we often make with card payments and how to stay safe, avoid overcharges, and keep control of your transactions.

In today’s cashless world, credit and debit card payments have become the norm, but many of us make common mistakes that could cost time, money, or even compromise security. One of the most frequent errors, according to the Bank of Spain, is tapping your card mindlessly without checking the amount displayed on the terminal. With contactless payments making transactions faster than ever, it’s easy to get distracted, leading to overcharges or payment errors. This article explores the most common card payment mistakes, explains why they happen, and provides practical tips to avoid them. From verifying amounts to understanding transaction limits and deciding when receipts are necessary, you’ll learn how to stay in control of your spending and keep your card transactions safe and hassle-free.

A cashless future

As the world moves rapidly toward a cashless future, credit and debit card payments have already become the most common method of transaction — particularly in developed nations. With technology making non-cash payments easier and more secure, societies across the globe are gradually phasing out cash in favor of digital and card-based alternatives.

Greater control and security

One of the biggest advantages of digital and card-based payments is the greater control and security they offer over each transaction. Unlike cash, which can be difficult to track and manage, card payments provide a clear, traceable record of every purchase or sale. This not only streamlines the payment process but also reduces risks associated with handling physical money, making transactions more efficient and secure.

Doing it the right way

While card payments offer unmatched convenience and security, it’s essential to use them wisely. For transactions to remain safe, we must ensure we're following the best practices and avoiding simple mistakes that could lead to financial loss or unnecessary headaches. From double-checking payment terminals to safeguarding your PIN and card details, knowing how to pay the right way can make all the difference.

A common and unconscious mistake

According to the Bank of Spain, one of the most common — and often unconscious — mistakes we make when paying by card is tapping without checking the payment screen first. This happens in a rush or out of habit, but it can lead to serious errors, such as being charged the wrong amount or falling victim to fraudulent activity. Whether it's in a busy store or at a self-service machine, always glance at the terminal display before tapping your card to ensure the amount and the merchant are correct.

This small but crucial step can prevent a lot of financial headaches and gives you more control over your transactions. In a world where most payments are quick and contactless, staying alert can make all the difference in protecting your money.

Don’t tap your card mindlessly

While it may seem like common sense to check the payment screen before completing a purchase, many of us skip this crucial step — especially with the rise of fast, contactless card payments that no longer require a PIN. The Bank of Spain warns that this habit of mindlessly tapping our card can lead to being incorrectly charged or even scammed. In today’s tap-and-go world, taking just a moment to verify the amount on the screen can save you from costly mistakes and protect your financial information.

An automated experience

In today’s fast-paced world, paying by card has become such an automated and effortless routine that it virtually requires no attention. Whether you're chatting with someone, distracted by your phone, or simply in a hurry, it's easy to overlook the basic step of checking that the amount displayed on the payment screen matches your purchase. This lack of attention can lead to overcharges, double payments, or even falling prey to scams — all because we trust the process too much. With contactless payments making the transaction even quicker, it’s more important than ever to pause, look, and confirm before tapping your card.

A distraction that can result catastrophic

A tiny moment of distraction can lead to a major financial hiccup. Imagine you’re buying fruit for $17.83, but the cashier accidentally enters $1,783 by missing the decimal point. If you tap your card without checking, you’ve just authorized a huge payment by mistake. While such errors can be resolved later, the temporary financial chaos — from overdraft issues to frozen funds — could be overwhelming. That’s why even in the most routine transactions, taking a second to verify the amount before tapping your card is crucial. It’s a simple habit that can prevent a potentially catastrophic error.

Why limits are set for contactless payments

Thankfully, most contactless payments have a built-in safeguard: transaction limits. For smaller purchases, you can simply tap your card without entering a PIN, but for higher amounts, the terminal will require PIN verification. This not only adds a layer of protection against unauthorized use but also gives cardholders an extra moment to verify the purchase amount. By enforcing these limits, banks and payment systems help reduce fraud and prevent costly mistakes in large transactions—encouraging safer, more mindful spending.

Don’t Forget

As a final reminder, the Bank of Spain urges card users everywhere to always double-check the amount displayed on the POS terminal before completing a transaction. Whether you're paying for a coffee or a high-value item, taking just a moment to confirm the total can help you avoid accidental overcharges or potential fraud. In a world where contactless and automated payments are the norm, staying attentive is your best defense against unnecessary financial trouble.

Should You Always Ask for a Receipt?

It might seem like requesting a copy of the receipt is always necessary, but according to the Bank of Spain, if you carefully verify the amount on the POS terminal before completing the payment, a physical receipt isn’t strictly required. Every transaction is automatically recorded in your bank app and other digital records, giving you a reliable way to track your purchases. By focusing on verification at the moment of payment, you can stay secure and avoid unnecessary paper clutter.