Martin Lewis issues warning against common payment option at online checkouts

Martin Lewis has issued an urgent warning against a common payment option at online checkouts - and says it's especially risky for big purchases. The BBC and ITV star Mr Lewis, aged 52, said that while it may be tempting as a 'quicker and easier' option, it's not always the best way to make a purchase.

He said: "WARNING: Have you started to notice "pay by bank app" options at online checkouts. If so it's quicker, it's easier but be aware there's LITTLE PROTECTION. It's on the likes of Just Eat and Ryanair. You don't give card details, just pick your bank, and log into the app (via biometrics) then its done.

"Yet ultimately its just a bank transfer, which means you don't get the same refund rights like chargeback or Section 75 if things go wrong that you do when you pay by card. So for small things its no biggie, but beware with big important transactions."

READ MORE: Martin Lewis issues warning to anyone who pays under £135 a month for energy

READ MORE: DWP urges state pensioners born before 1959 to come forward for quick and free £13,170

READ MORE Foreign Office warns UK tourists to 'prepare' and says call 11-digit number

Martin added that if the real HMRC were using the payment method he would be 'less worried' as that would be paid by bank transfer anyway. In reply, a fan said: "Thank you for clarifying, because it was directly by bank app, I thought it meant "even more protection".

"Makes sense what you describe and I will stick to pay by card (or Apple pay)." A second typed: "It's one of those things where the tech makes it seem like ultimately the same thing, but the law hasn't yet reflected the fact'."

"Oh I’d hope it’s secure enough! I e just forked out for flights directly to an airline using this method," added another. "I use that way to pay my credit card so I’m grateful for your tweet. I’ll do it the long way in future," said another Twitter user.

Another X user said: "Well done on raising this Martin, be crazy to use this for travel or large purchases."