According to ICM research, a third of people that have a contactless payment card have used it to purchase an item, which is equal to just 8% of all consumers.

SmartDebit, a UK-based Direct Debut Bureau, commented “low usage of near field communication payments is a combination of consumers’ perception of the security of near field communication and a lack of promotion.” The ICM research found that from the 11 stores they visited, just three of them were promoting contactless payments.

ICM’s research also revealed that of those who had used contactless payments, just 12 per cent use it on at least a weekly basis. The majority of those that do use it spend less than £10 ($16 USD) per transaction.

Consumers are concerned that if their card is lost or stolen, it could be easily used to purchase goods by someone else. This is a possibility, however, contactless cards are guaranteed.

SmartDebit added, “Without more of a promotional effort, consumers will continue to opt for the ‘traditional’ chip and pin method.”