Westpac customers can now have peace of mind if they lose or misplace their debit or credit card during the festive season with the introduction of Westpac's Card on Hold feature on mobile and internet banking.
The Westpac Group is the first to market to extend the card on hold feature to debit card. The new feature allows both debit and credit card holders to temporarily lock their card in a matter of seconds, eliminating the need to call customer service and preventing any unauthorised transactions.
Westpac's general manager for digital, Harry Wendt said Card on Hold gives customers security and reassurance while out and about.
"Whether you have a busy social calendar or are going away for the holidays, Card on Hold is a quick and convenient solution to protect your account if your card is misplaced, lost or stolen.
"Around 9% of our customers report lost or stolen credit and debit cards annually1 and with the silly season upon us, we want our customers to know there's a convenient solution if they lose or misplace their card. What's more, customers can use Get Cash to withdraw money from any Westpac ATM while their card is missing," Mr Wendt said.
Another new feature available to Westpac customers is Pay to Mobile - a fast and secure way to transfer money using a mobile number rather than needing to know a person's account details.
Mr Wendt said Pay to Mobile is a secure and convenient way to split a restaurant bill, or to pay money to friends.
"With Pay to Mobile, all you need is the mobile phone number of the person you are paying and the rest is easy."
"The busy holiday season provides a timely reminder for customers to make the most of Westpac's latest mobile banking features such as Card on Hold and Pay to Mobile while keeping their accounts secure.