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Nearly 2 in 10 in APAC embrace digital payments during pandemic
IS cash still king in the Asia Pacific?Kaspersky’s recent study showed it still is, but may not be for long.Titled “Mapping a secure path for the future of digital payments in APAC”, the research studied local users’ interactions with the available online payments in the region and examined their attitudes towards them, which hold the key to understanding the factors that will further drive or stem the adoption of this technology.One of its key findings showed that a great majority (90%) of the Asian respondents has used mobile payment apps at least once in the past 12 months, confirming the fintech boom in the region. Nearly 2 in 10 (15%) of which only started using these platforms after the pandemic.The Philippines logged the highest percent of new e-cash adopters at 37%, followed by India (23%), Australia (15%), Vietnam (14%), Indonesia (13%), and Thailand (13%). The lowest number of first-time online payment users are China (5%), South Korea (9%), and Malaysia (9%).China has been a notable leader in mobile payments in APAC. Even before the pandemic, its top local platforms, Alipay and WeChat Pay, have witnessed significant mass adoption and served as an example to follow for other Asian countries.“Data from our fresh research showed that cash is still king, at least for now, in APAC with 70% of the respondents still using physical notes for their day-to-day transactions. However, mobile payment and mobile banking applications are not far behind with 58% and 52% users utilizing these platforms at least once a week up to more than once a day for their finance-related tasks. From these solid statistics, we can infer that the pandemic has triggered more people to dip their toes into the digital economy, which may fully dethrone cash use here in the next three to five years,” says Chris Connell, Managing Director for Asia Pacific at Kaspersky.Safety and convenience triggered more users in APAC to embrace financial technologies. More than half of the survey pollees noted that they started using digital payment methods during the pandemic as it is safer and more convenient than making a face-to-face transaction.
Respondents also cited that these platforms allowed them to make payments while adhering to social distancing (45%) and that these are the only way they can do monetary transactions during the lockdown (36%). For 29% of users, digital gateways are more secure now compared to pre-COVID-19 era and the same percentage also appreciate the incentives and rewards providers offer.
While only a small fraction, friends and relatives (23%) still influenced new adopters as well as the local government (18%) promoting the use of digital payment methods.
When asked about their reservations prior to using mobile banking and payment apps, first-time users admitted their fears – afraid of losing money online (48%) and afraid of storing their financial data online (41%). Almost 4 in 10 also revealed they do not trust the security of these platforms.
More than a quarter also find this technology too troublesome and requires many passwords or questions (26%), while 25% confessed their personal devices are not secure enough.
“To drive a secured digital economy forward, it is important for us to know the pain points of our users and identify the loopholes that we need to address urgently. It is a welcome finding that the public is aware of the risks that comes with online transactions and because of this, developers and providers of mobile payment applications should now look into the cybersecurity gaps in each stage of the payment process and implement security features, or even a secure-by-design approach to fully gain the trust of the future and existing digital payment adopters,” Connell adds.
To help users in APAC embrace digital payment technologies securely, Kaspersky experts suggest the following:
It is better to be safe than sorry – beware of fake communications, and adopt a cautious stance when it comes to handing over sensitive information. Do not readily share private or confidential information online, especially when it comes to requests for your financial information and payment details.
Use your own computer and Internet connection when making payments online. As like how you would only make purchases only from trusted stores when shopping physically, translate the same caution to when making payments online – you’ll never know if public computers have spyware running on them recording everything you type on the keyboards, or if your public Internet connection has been intercepted by criminals waiting to launch an attack.
Don’t share your passwords, PIN numbers or one-time passwords (OTPs) with family or friends. While it may seem convenient, or a good idea, these provide an entryway for cybercriminals to trick users into revealing personal information to collect bank credentials. Keep them to yourself and safeguard your private information.
Adopting a holistic solution of security products and practical steps can minimize the risk of falling victim to threats and keeping your financial information safe. Utilize reliable security solutions for comprehensive protection from a wide range of threats, such as Kaspersky Internet Security, Kaspersky Fraud Prevention and the use of Kaspersky Safe Money to help check the authenticity of websites of banks, payment systems and online stores you visit, as well as establish a secure connection.
To read the full report, please visit https://kas.pr/b6w8.
Methodology
The Kaspersky “Mapping a digitally secure path for the future of payments in APAC” report studies our interactions with online payments. It also examines our attitudes towards them, which hold the key to understanding the factors that will further drive or stem the adoption of this technology.The study was conducted by research agency YouGov in key territories in APAC, including Australia, China, India, Indonesia, Malaysia, Philippines, Singapore, South Korea, Thailand and Vietnam (10 countries). Survey responses were gathered in July 2021 with a total of 1,618 respondents surveyed across the stated countries.
The respondents ranged from 18-65 years of age, all of which are working professionals who are digital payment users.
Through this study, when the behavior of the population of a market is generalized, it is in reference to the group of respondents sampled above.
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HONOR Magic V3 now available with free HONOR Pad X9 worth P9,999
9:45 p.m. November 25, 2024
Global technology brand HONOR recently unfolded its newest and thinnest foldable smartphone HONOR Magic V3 for only P89,999 and is now available nationwide at any HONOR Experience, Partner Stores, Globe Stores and online via Shopee (https://bit.ly/Shop_MagicV3_PR), Lazada (https://bit.ly/Laz_MagicV3_PR) or TikTok Shop (https://bit.ly/TikTok_MagicV3_PR).
“HONOR Magic V3 is now within every Filipino’s reach. With many availability options, the thinnest foldable smartphone hits the nationwide market, still with FREE HONOR Pad X9. You are truly getting more than what you paid for,” said HONOR Philippines Vice President Stephen Cheng.
On November 20, HONOR Philippines officially brought the all-new HONOR Magic V3 in the country – the world’s thinnest inward foldable phone with enhanced durability, battery, display and AI experience, to global consumers. With a sleek folded thickness of 9.2mm and featherlight body weighing just 226g, the HONOR Magic V3 rivals the slimness and weight of a flagship bar phone, ensuring utmost portability for users.
Featuring a dome-shaped octagonal camera module, the HONOR Magic V3 seamlessly combines the architectural beauty of dome structures with technological innovations. This camera module showcases a diamond cut, adding an element of elegance and sleekness to the device’s overall appearance.
Adding to its durability, the HONOR Magic V3 incorporates a Special Fiber into its body material, enhancing impact resistance by 40 times compared to other flagship bar phones while reducing the back cover’s thickness by over 30%. Moreover, featuring the proprietary HONOR Super Steel Hinge, the device can withstand up to 500,000 folding cycles and has attained the prestigious SGS Durability Certification. Fortified with the HONOR Super Armored Inner Screen and HONOR Anti-scratch NanoCrystal Shield, the HONOR Magic V3 is crafted to endure the rigors of daily use.
Equipped with a 6.43-inch external display and a 7.92-inch internal foldable screen, the HONOR Magic V3 delivers an immersive dual-use experience, offering an enjoyable visual journey to users. Dedicated to prioritizing user well-being and comfort, this device incorporates a range of innovative eye-comfort features, such as the world’s first AI Defocus Display technology, 4320Hz Risk-free PWM Dimming, Dynamic Dimming, Circadian Night Display and Natural Tone Display.
In addition, the HONOR Magic V3 is packed with an advanced 5150mAh Third-generation Silicon-carbon Battery, supported by the lightning-fast 66W Wired and 50W Wireless HONOR SuperCharge, ensuring users an uninterrupted and stress-free mobile experience. Featuring the innovative HONOR Falcon Camera System which encompasses a 50MP Periscope Telephoto Camera, a 50MP Main Camera, and a 40MP Ultra-wide Camera, the device promises unparalleled imaging quality and versatility for users seeking stunning smartphone photography.
Inspired by the wonders of natural landscape, the HONOR Magic V3 comes in two stunning colorways Green and Black for only P89,999, now available nationwide at any HONOR Experience and Partner Stores or online via Shopee (https://bit.ly/Shop_MagicV3_PR), Lazada (https://bit.ly/Laz_MagicV3_PR) or TikTok Shop (https://bit.ly/TikTok_MagicV3_PR).
HONOR Magic V3 is also available via Globe Postpaid Plans starting at GPlan Plus 1799 with a FREE HONOR Pad X9 worth P9,999!
For as low as Php 1,514 per month for 36 months, you can enjoy HONOR Magic V3 with FREE 20GB Data and Unli All-net Call and Text on top of exclusive perks! Go now to the nearest Globe Store it get it online via: https://bit.ly/Globe_MagicV3_PR.
For more information about the HONOR Magic V3, you may visit: https://bit.ly/Web_MagicV3_PR. To be in the loop of exciting updates, follow HONOR Philippines’ social media platforms on: Facebook (Facebook.com/HonorPhilippines), Instagram (Instagram.com/honorph/) and TikTok: (Tiktok.com/@honorphilippines).
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foodpanda’s 11.11 Deals: Big savings of up to 50% on Domino’s Pizza, pandamart and foodpanda Shops!
4:59 p.m. November 11, 2024
foodpanda brings a delectable brand day treat this 11.11 with Domino’s Pizza. From November 11 to 13, Domino’s Pizza will give 50% off on selected pizzas so you can sink your teeth on your favorite slices at an unbeatable price! Plus, the excitement continues with pandamart and foodpanda Shops offering up to 50% off on wide range of essentials. Do it all at once with foodpanda’s 11.11 deals!
Brand Day with Domino’s
This Domino’s Pizza-themed Brand Day features a mouthwatering 50% discount on popular pizzas, with no minimum order required. Don’t miss your favorites:
- 10” and 14” Ultimate Pepperoni: Packed with classic pepperoni goodness.
- 10” and 14” Cheese Mania: A cheesy dream come true!
- 10” and 14” Bacon & Mushroom: Perfectly balanced with savory bacon and mushrooms.
Whether it’s delivered to your work desk, picked up for a family feast, or shared with the barkada for a chill hangout, this exclusive Domino’s promo lets you savor pizza your way, any day, anywhere. It’s the perfect slice of happiness—made for every occasion and every craving!
Half Off, Full Stock: Grab Your Essentials at pandamart and foodpanda Shops!
Alongside the Domino’s deal, you can also enjoy up to 50% off at pandamart and select foodpanda Shops vendors like Ever Supermarket, Watsons, and Shell Select. Stock up on essentials, discover new products, and make your 11.11 celebration even more rewarding.
Make sure to take advantage of these incredible deals from November 11 to 15, 2024, and stock up on essentials at pandamart and foodpanda Shops with up to 50% off. It’s the perfect time to enjoy great food, stock up on your must-haves, and celebrate the season of savings with foodpanda!
For more information about foodpanda and the incredible offers available, visit the official website at https://www.foodpanda.ph. Also like and follow the official social media accounts on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, Tiktok and Youtube.
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PH slides to top 4 in Kaspersky’s new global ranking of countries most targeted by online threats
February 5, 2024 9:46 p.m.
In 2023, web threats targeting the Philippines were about two percent less (48%) than in 2022 (49.8%), according to the latest Kaspersky Security Network (KSN) report.
With this new data, the country moved two spots down to fourth place worldwide among countries most targeted by malicious files from the internet and phishing websites. It looks like a positive development but Kaspersky is strongly advising against dropping the armor.
“There are two things that could explain the drop in web threats, albeit slightly. First is that we see the country is slowly making headway in cybersecurity. We classify the Philippines to be in the intermediate group of countries that are identifying cyberattacks and making efforts to implement rules. The second one and this we have to seriously take note, is that cybercriminals are continuously taking other attack routes that might be off the radar. One trend that we consistently have been seeing lately is their preference for targeted attacks instead of the spray and pray method,” said Yeo Siang Tiong, General Manager for Southeast Asia at Kaspersky.
“Complacency, however, is still not an option. Cybercriminals continue to develop their tools and techniques. They actually surprise cybersecurity experts all the time. Our mindset should be how to be able to hunt threats before they could cause harm and damage. At this point, I recommend that we should be talking more about threats as we proactively learn to detect and respond to them. This is where threat intelligence comes in handy,” added Yeo.
Web or online threats are attacks through browsers which are also cybercriminals’ tried and tested way to spread malware. It can easily be done with or without the involvement of the victim.
A web attack with victim participation is done through social engineering. The victim is tricked into doing something that jeopardizes their personal security or the security of the organization they work for. The objective is to get the victim to respond by clicking an infected email attachment, a compromised website, or responding to a fake unsubscribe notice, among others. Last year’s data breaches involving a government agency and an e-wallet company, which were each reportedly traced to phishing, are examples of this type of web threat.
An attack requiring no victim involvement is through drive-by downloads. By simply visiting a compromised website, their device gets infected automatically (and silently) particularly if they failed to apply a security update to one of their apps. This method is used in most web attacks.
In the recent global ranking, the Philippines came behind Mongolia (51.8%), Moldova (48.9%) and Greece (48.8%). Since 2019, the country has consistently been in the top 10 ranking countries.
Among Southeast Asian countries, the Philippines is trailed by Malaysia with the overall percentage of users attacked by web-borne threats from January to December 2023.
To stay protected, Kaspersky recommends users the following:
- Do not download and install applications from untrusted sources
- Do not click on any links from unknown sources or suspicious online advertisements
- Create strong and unique passwords, including a mix of lower case and upper case letters, numbers, and punctuation, as well as activating two-factor authentication
- Always install updates
- Ignore messages asking to disable security systems for office or cybersecurity solution
- Use a robust cybersecurity solution appropriate to your system type and devices
For organizations, Kaspersky recommends the following:
- Always keep software updated on all the devices to prevent attackers from infiltrating network by exploiting vulnerabilities
- Use strong passwords to access corporate services. Use multi-factor authentication for access to remote services
- Choose a proven endpoint cybersecurity solution for business that is equipped with behaviors-based detection and anomaly control capabilities for effective protection against known and unknown threats
- Use dedicated set of effective endpoint protection, threat detection and response products to timely detect and remediate even new and evasive threats
- Use the latest threat intelligence information to empower your security experts
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