The Bank of Costa Rica (BCR) launched the bracelet for BCR purchases, the first “wearable” device linked to a banking service in the country. This new means of face-to-face payment uses contactless technology for purchases under ¢15,000 (as provided in the Regulation of the Central Bank Payment System).
The device is linked to a line of credit, so its use will be reflected in the usual account statements and will depend on the available balance. Users do not need to show their identification or sign the invoice when making the transaction.
Regarding means of payment, the BCR is taking a transcendental step, since it is migrating from the technology of magnetic stripe to chip technology, which is much safer. We are taking advantage of this technology to offer customers not only greater security but also greater convenience, ease and speed with the wristband,”
said Allan Guillen, head of payment media at BCR.
The bracelets for purchases of the BCR contain the same security of a traditional chip card, which until now has not been violated. However, it is important that the client keeps it in custody at all times and, if eventually lost, must report it to the Bank immediately to be canceled.
Being an exclusive means of payment without contact, the client never loses sight and control of their wristband, therefore they are not exposed to data theft.
As an additional security element, a maximum limit per transaction of ¢15,000 and a maximum daily use limit of ¢ 100,000 was placed on 10 transactions.
Some of the advantages of this device are that you do not have to carry and take care of your card, do not need bags on your clothes or carry a wallet or purse because you wear the wristband, and the transactions are faster.
How to get it?
If you are a BCR customer and have a credit card, you should only request it through the website http://www.bancobcr.com/ BCRTarjetas / or call 2211-1155 and state where you want it to be sent. In 2018 there will be no cost for this operation.
In the case of those who do not have a credit card with the BCR, you must request it through the same link http://www.bancobcr.com/ BCRTarjetas / or call 2211-1155.