Finland develops system to allow in-store card payments during internet outages

Finland is planning a system that would enable card payments at retail checkouts even when internet connections fail, state broadcaster Yle reports, citing the Finnish News Agency STT.

The initiative comes as Finns now primarily use cards for in-store purchases. The system would ensure payment options remain available during potential cyberattacks or other disruptions affecting Finland’s internet infrastructure.

Tuomas Välimäki, a member of the Bank of Finland’s board, stated that payments could be processed under the system for limited amounts and for specific goods and services. No timeline for implementation has yet been confirmed.