Self-preparedness for payments
Payment systems in Norway are secure and effective. However, digital attacks, human error or power outages may make it impossible to pay for goods in stores. Therefore the Bank of Norway recommends that everyone should have several payment alternatives.
Advice regarding payments
- Hold several different payment cards, such as debit and credit cards.
- Keep some extra cash, preferably in various and smaller values.
- Keep accounts in several banks.
Having several payment alternatives can limit the consequences if you can no longer pay for things as you normally do. Here is the Bank of Norway’s self-preparedness advice.
Read more about self-preparedness for payments on the Bank of Norway’s website (in Norwegian).
Hold several payment cards
Holding different payment cards offers good preparedness in the event of a failure of a payment service. These can be different types of payment cards (debit or credit card), or cards issued by different banks.
Keep some cash
Cash can be used even if reserve electronic solutions no longer function; however, in some situations, it can be difficult to obtain. The Bank of Norway therefore recommends that you keep some cash available, in various and preferably smaller values. Assess the amount based on what you have of emergency goods and what you may need to purchase in an emergency situation.
Keep accounts in several banks
Having accounts in several banks enhances self-preparedness if technical problems should occur in one of the banks.
