How do we keep payments secure and future-proof for everyone?

Reliable payment systems require effort

We make millions of payments in the Netherlands every day. Although these usually go without a hitch, there are risks behind the scenes that could potentially disrupt smooth payments. Geopolitical tensions, cyber attacks, and dependence on non-European technology companies have made our society more vulnerable. If consumers and businesses cannot make payments, society comes to a standstill. There is simply too much at stake. This is why DNB is committed to a secure and reliable payment system, now and in the future.

Greater European autonomy and stronger resilience

The Netherlands currently relies heavily on non-European payment service providers – and that makes us vulnerable. Consumers and businesses should be able to opt for European digital payment instruments that can be used to pay anywhere in Europe. This is why Europe is promoting more European payment instruments such as:

• Wero, the new European payment solution to be introduced in the Netherlands from 2026.
• The digital euro, a reliable digital alternative to cash that can be used both online and offline.

Consumers and businesses: spread risks

It rarely happens, but it does happen: a major network outage that brings down electronic payment systems, preventing people from doing their shopping. We therefore advise households to have sufficient cash on hand for a period of 72 hours. It is also wise to have payment accounts with different banks. If one bank’s systems go down temporarily, you can always use the other bank. And businesses and payment service providers are advised not to depend on a single supplier for vital services. In other words: don't put all your eggs in one basket.

The technology behind the payment system must be resistant to failures. DNB is working with banks, retailers and other parties on:

• the ability to pay offline
• stable amount of ATMs nationwide
• robust protection against cyber attacks

Innovation is great, but it must be secure

Payments are changing rapidly and new payment instruments offer many possibilities and convenience. But there are also risks: AI systems will soon be able to make purchases independently, and criminals are using new tricks to deceive their victims. And more and more people are paying with their phones, not realising they are sharing data about their purchases in the process.

DNB welcomes innovation, provided payments remain safe and secure. This calls for:

• Clear information for consumers on new payment instruments and what happens to their data.
• Cooperation in the fight against fraud, for example against spoofing and deepfakes.
• Responsible use of AI by payment service providers: it must be transparent, explainable and secure.

Towards a single integrated European capital market

DNB facilitates the deployment of innovative technologies by banks and other financial institutions, such as distributed ledger technology. Together with other European central banks, we are also working on innovations to the common central-banking system to ensure it continues to inspire confidence and provide stability in a rapidly changing world. We are removing barriers to cross-border investment, strengthening Europe’s competitiveness and strategic autonomy, and ensuring that businesses and investors have a greater range of options to choose from.

Cash remains important

We are using cash less and less often, but it still remains an important means of payment. Everyone should be able to rely on cash: not just consumers who are less digitally savvy, but also in case of major outages. This is why we want cash to remain available, accessible and affordable.

Working together, we can keep payments reliable and accessible

DNB works with banks, the government, businesses and civil society organisations to ensure that everyone in the Netherlands - young or old, well-off or on a tight budget - can continue to make payments securely and easily and in the way that suits them best.

This article is based on our Payments Strategy 2026-2028 (Dutch only)