💡 To use Google Pay, start by updating the Holvi app! You'll need the latest version. Google Pay is currently only available in Finland and Germany.
Transactions you make with Google Pay are totally secure. Your payment information is encrypted and stored on Google's servers, using some of the most advanced infrastructure to help keep your account safe.
When you pay using Holvi and Google Pay, your full card details are never stored on your phone or shared with merchants. Instead, merchants see only your virtual account number – keeping your real Holvi card details safely out of sight.
#️⃣ What are virtual account numbers – and how do they keep me safe?
A virtual account number is a type of temporary alias for your actual account number. It's created when you add your Holvi card to Google Pay – and it effectively adds an extra layer of security to all transactions made using Holvi and Google Pay.
For example, when you pay in stores your virtual account number is shared with the merchant instead of your actual Holvi account number. This helps keep your account information safe.
To find your virtual account number, follow these steps:
- Open the Google Pay app
- Tap Payment
- Choose your Holvi card
- Scroll down to the bottom to find the virtual account number (only last 4 digits are visible)
|
Note: If you don't see ‘Virtual Account Number’, you’ll need to set up your Holvi card for in-store payments. |
💬 Do I get notifications on payments?
Yes. When you pay using Holvi and Google Pay, you’ll get an instant notification confirming each payment. This helps you detect suspicious activity sooner. Payment notifications tell you:
- The merchant's name
- The payment or refund amount
🔒 Do I need to unlock my phone to pay with Google Pay?
You'll need to set up a screen lock on your device before you add a Holvi card to the Google Pay app or make in-store payments. If you turn screen lock off, Google Pay removes your virtual account number from your device for your protection.
To make most purchases, you need to unlock your phone. However, you won't need to unlock your phone for small payments (€25 in Finland, €50 in Germany). Only being able to make small purchases without unlocking your phone provides some added protection.
Can I enable Require device unlock to stay extra safe?
Yes. For added security, you can set up your phone so that it must be unlocked to complete an NFC (Near Field Communication – this is what Google Pay uses) transaction.
This setting is called Require device lock. To turn on it on:
- Go to Settings on your Android device
- Tap Connected devices > Connection preferences > NFC
- Turn on Require device unlock for NFC
If you can’t find this option, you may need to update your phone to the latest version of Android.
What should I do if my phone is lost or stolen?
If you've misplaced your Android phone, you can use Android Device Manager to either lock your device or perform a remote factory reset and prevent any new Google Pay transactions being made.