HNB PLC, one of Sri Lanka’s leading private sector banks, has introduced Google Wallet support for its debit card customers, enabling eligible cardholders to make contactless payments using Google Pay on Android smartphones and supported wearable devices. This enhancement expands payment options for everyday transactions, offering greater convenience both locally and overseas.
With this feature, customers can add their HNB Visa Debit Card to Google Wallet and use Google Pay to tap and pay at contactless-enabled point-of-sale terminals. Where available, Google Pay can also be used for online and in-app purchases, eliminating the need to repeatedly enter card details. Supported devices include NFC-enabled Android smartphones and compatible wearables supported by Google Wallet.
Currently, the service is available for HNB Debit Cards, with the bank expected to announce further updates on additional card products in future phases.
Setting up is simple—customers can open the Google Wallet app, select “Add a card,” enter or scan their HNB Visa Debit Card details, accept the terms and conditions, and complete the verification process. Once verified, the card is ready for use on the device wherever Google Pay is accepted.
The service is built with enhanced security features aligned with global card payment standards. When a card is added to Google Wallet, it is stored in a secure digital format rather than sharing the actual card number with merchants during transactions. Payments are authenticated using device-level security such as a PIN, fingerprint, or facial recognition, depending on user settings. These safeguards ensure secure usage while giving customers full control over their transactions.
In the event a device is lost, customers can remove their card from Google Wallet and are advised to contact HNB to block the physical card if necessary. Since transactions require device authentication, unauthorized use is further minimized through built-in security layers.
Commenting on the launch, HNB Vice President – Cards, Gauthami Niranjan, stated:
“This capability gives our Debit Card customers a practical way to transact through Google Wallet with the controls and security expected of card-based payments. It supports customers who prefer contactless options for everyday spending, while allowing the Bank to extend digital payment convenience without compromising governance, verification, and operational oversight.”