Banking during the pandemic
Here are some tips to make banking and transacting during the Covid-19 pandemic safe.
The World Health Organisation (WHO) reports that the novel coronavirus, COVID-19 spreads mainly from person to person through small droplets from the nose or mouth which become airborne when an infected person coughs or exhales. That's why social distancing is strongly encouraged.
While airborne transmission is considered the most common way for the virus to spread, there is research that suggests that one can potentially get the disease by touching an infected object or surface and then touching one's mouth, nose, or eyes.
The ability of this virus to live for so long outside of the human body reinforces the extreme hand hygiene and rigorous sanitisation of workspaces and public surfaces encouraged by governments and health experts worldwide. What does this mean for banking? Don't panic; here are some tips to make banking and transacting during the Covid-19 pandemic safe:
Cash is not King
Pay with your card as much as you can. You want to avoid touching cash as you don't know who was exposed to the banknotes previously. If you have to deal with cash – like supporting your local small business or paying for transport services – keep a small bottle of hand sanitiser available to use both before and after you handle cash.
Use Tap to Pay
If you must use your card, use Tap to Pay. Don't let anyone else handle your card. If someone else must handle your card, wash or sanitise both your hands and the card before and after use.
Where possible avoid ATMs and branches
ATMs and branches are high-traffic public spaces that are better avoided, especially during the pandemic. Almost all of our banking services are available and possible through online platforms and apps. We recommend registering for and using these self-service options if you're not already doing so.
Payment without using your card
If possible, keep your bank card in your wallet or purse and use cardless payment apps, like SnapScan, Mastercard, Pass M-Pesa and other cardless features. Remember to sterilise your phone too.
If you have any questions relating to our Covid-19 safety and hygiene protocols or need help with any of our online banking tools, click here to find your country locator and contact details.