Nationwide customers now have the option to send money to new recipients using a selfie for verification. While some online banking transactions may still require a card reader, a recent update allows customers to authenticate their identity by taking a photo of themselves.
To set up this feature, customers can log into their account, access their profile and settings, and select the option to remove the card reader. Following the steps, they will need to use the card reader once more to generate a secure passcode, and then take a selfie to confirm their identity.
Once set up, customers can choose not to use a card reader for future payments. Nationwide introduced biometric authentication last year and has been gradually implementing it for customers. Additionally, customers can also use their fingerprint to authorize payments for added security.
A Nationwide spokesperson mentioned that the selfie authentication feature aims to offer a secure and convenient banking experience for app users. Users who pass the necessary checks can opt to forgo using a card reader if they prefer.
In related news, there are discussions on whether Nationwide will issue a fourth round of £100 Fairer Share bonuses to customers this year, with a decision expected to be announced alongside the full-year results in May. In the past, over four million Nationwide members received the bonus, typically distributed between June and July.
Existing Nationwide customers have previously needed to meet certain criteria to qualify for the Fairer Share bonus, usually tied to activities in the first quarter of the year. For those considering switching to Nationwide, MoneySavingExpert suggests that new customers can receive a £175 bonus by completing the switch before March 31, 2026.