The IFCU Blog

Paying with your Industrial Federal Credit Union (IFCU) debit or credit card has never been easier—or more secure. Thanks to Apple Pay, Google Pay, Samsung Pay, and other digital wallets, you can leave your physical wallet at home and checkout with just a tap of your phone or smartwatch.

Digital wallets don’t just make payments faster; they also add a powerful layer of security to every transaction. Here’s how digital wallets work, why they’re safe, and step-by-step instructions on how to add your IFCU Visa® debit or credit card today.

How Do Digital Wallets Work?

Digital wallets use a process called tokenization to protect your sensitive information. Instead of transmitting your actual card number to the store or payment terminal, a random series of numbers—called a token—is used.

Here’s what happens when you pay with your digital wallet:

1. The app creates a unique token that corresponds to your account.

2. It generates a one-time security key for that purchase.

3. This information is sent to the merchant’s payment terminal.

4. The payment processor verifies the token and security key in its secure token vault.

5. If approved, the charge is sent directly to your IFCU debit or credit card.

Because your actual card number is never shared with the merchant, your financial information stays safe.

Are Digital Wallets Safe?

Yes—digital wallets are actually safer than swiping your physical card.

• In a traditional payment, your card data is read and stored by the payment terminal, payment processor, and your financial institution—three different places where information could potentially be compromised.

• With tokenization, your card number is only visible to the payment processor and IFCU. Merchants never see or store your card details.

This means fewer points of vulnerability and greater protection for you. Plus, Apple, Google, and Samsung don’t track what you buy—giving you an extra layer of privacy along with security.

How to Add Your IFCU Card to a Digital Wallet

Getting started is simple! Here’s how to add your Industrial Federal Credit Union Visa® debit or credit card to your preferred digital wallet:

Apple Pay

1. Open the Wallet app on your iPhone.

2. Tap the “+” button in the top-right corner.

3. Select Debit or Credit Card.

4. Follow the prompts to enter your IFCU card details (you can scan your card or type it in).

5. Verify your card through IFCU (you may receive a text, email, or phone call to confirm).

6. Once verified, your card is ready to use at checkout!

Google Pay

1. Download and open the Google Wallet app on your Android device.

2. Tap “Add to Wallet” and choose Payment Card.

3. Select Debit or Credit Card.

4. Enter your IFCU card details or use your camera to scan it.

5. Complete the verification process with IFCU.

6. Your card is now set up and ready to tap and pay.

Samsung Pay

1. Open the Samsung Wallet app.

2. Tap Menu > Cards > Add Card.

3. Enter your IFCU debit or credit card details.

4. Complete the verification with IFCU.

5. Your card will be ready to use with Samsung Pay.

Why Use a Digital Wallet with IFCU?

• Convenience – Pay with just your phone or watch, no wallet required.

• Security – Tokenization keeps your card information safe.

• Privacy – Apple, Google, and Samsung never see your purchases.

• Speed – Tap, pay, and be on your way.

Take Control of Your Cards

Once your card is in your digital wallet, don’t forget that IFCU’s card control features give you even more power over how and where your card is used. Turn your card on or off instantly, set spending limits, and receive real-time alerts—all for free.

Start Using Your Digital Wallet Today

Adding your Industrial Federal Credit Union debit or credit card to Apple Pay, Google Pay, or Samsung Pay is quick and simple. With added security, privacy, and convenience, it’s the smarter way to pay.