Face Recognition Payment: A New Era in Biometric Payment Systems

Imagine being able to make a payment without a card, cash, or phone—just by using your face. Sounds like the technology of the future, doesn’t it? In fact, that future is already here: the era of face recognition payment (pay by face) has begun. Combining artificial intelligence and biometric technology, this new system takes contactless payment to the next level. So, what is face payment, how does it work, how secure is it, and what stage is this technology at in Turkey? We’ll explore it all step by step in the Papel Blog.

What is face recognition payment?

Face recognition payment is a biometric payment method that identifies the user through facial data and enables authentication without the need for a card or phone.

AI-powered facial recognition algorithms analyze a person’s facial features, match them with previously stored biometric data, and verify their identity. Once authentication is successful, the transaction is automatically approved, and the payment is completed entirely contactless, fast, and securely. During the Face Payment process, the system may also ask the user for a password for additional identity verification.

How do biometric payment systems work?

Biometric payment systems verify the user’s identity through unique biometric data such as face, fingerprint, iris, or voice. The process for facial recognition technology typically follows these steps:

1. Registration: The user scans their face through the relevant application (for example, a fintech or digital wallet platform).

2. Data security: This data is converted into a “template,” encrypted, and stored securely in compliance with KVKK (Personal Data Protection Law of Turkey) standards.

3. Payment moment: The camera detects the user’s live face and compares it with the stored template.

4. Verification: If the match is successful, the payment is completed within a few seconds.

Thanks to a technology called liveness detection, fraudulent attempts using photos, videos, or masks cannot pass verification. This means face recognition payment only activates when a real, live face is detected, minimizing the risk of fraud.

Is face payment secure?

Face payment systems are based on biometric authentication, which provides a high level of security. This technology recognizes each person’s unique facial features, stores encrypted data, and does not share this information with third parties. The data is protected under KVKK as “sensitive personal data.”

In Turkey, the use of biometric data is legally protected by Law No. 6698 on the Protection of Personal Data (KVKK). In other words, facial data can only be collected with the user’s consent and cannot be used for purposes other than payment.

AI-powered liveness detection systems can instantly identify fake attempts using photos or videos, making face payment much more secure than traditional card payments.

Advantages of face recognition payment systems

Biometric payments offer many advantages for both users and businesses:

Speed and convenience

With Face Payment, users can complete transactions in seconds simply by looking at the camera—no cards or passwords needed. This method significantly reduces transaction times, especially during busy shopping periods.

Contactless and hygienic

Because Face Payment requires no physical contact, it ensures hygiene. Demand for contactless payment has increased since the pandemic, leading to the rapid adoption of such systems.

Secure

Since every face is unique, duplication or sharing is nearly impossible. As a result, the risks of card loss or fraud are minimized.

Positive user experience

Face Payment provides a modern, innovative, and practical shopping experience.

Face recognition payment applications in Turkey and around the world

Globally, solutions such as Amazon One, Alipay FacePay, and Mastercard Biometric Checkout are leading the way. According to research, the biometric payment market was valued at USD 8.6 billion in 2023 and is expected to reach USD 34.8 billion by 2032.

This technology is also rapidly spreading in Turkey. E-money institutions, fintech companies, and retail brands have started testing face payment solutions. These systems can already be integrated into coffee chains, retail stores, and digital wallet applications—and will become even more common in the near future.

One glance is enough: Try Papel face payment!

You no longer need to make payments with your card, phone, or cash. With Papel Face Payment, you can simply look at the camera, enter your password, and complete your payment within seconds.

It’s secure, hygienic, and fast—and your data is protected in accordance with KVKK standards. In other words, a safe and seamless shopping experience is just one glance away with Papel.

Discover Papel Face Payment →

 

Sources: 1, 2.

 

This blog post contains general information, not legal, financial, or investment advice. The content is prepared for informational purposes only, and you are advised to seek professional advice for your specific circumstances. The expressions in this article do not carry any binding nature or responsibility and reflect only the author’s evaluation. All your decisions are your responsibility, and Papel Electronic Money and Payment Services Inc. accepts no liability for any consequences arising from them.