For Baby Boomers, paying for something isn’t about chasing the newest tap-to-pay trend. It’s about knowing their money is safe and that payments are hassle-free. A new PXP survey finds that, while Boomers have adopted digital payments in daily life, they still put their trust in debit and credit cards over mobile wallets, wearables, or other flashy innovations.
Born between 1946 and 1964, Boomers have seen the payment world shift from cash and checks to contactless cards and online transactions. They’ve adapted – but on their own terms. Their top priority? Security.

“Baby Boomers have embraced digital payments but only on their own terms,” said Kamran Hedjri, Group CEO for PXP. “They are selective about how they pay, valuing security, clarity and the ability to shop with confidence. Businesses that overcomplicate the process or fail to provide clear, trustworthy payment options risk losing Baby Boomers as clients.”
When asked what really matters at checkout, Boomers pointed to reliability and simplicity over novelty.
Key findings from the PXP study:
- 61% rank security as their top payment priority – the highest of any generation.
- 54% see credit and debit cards as the most secure ways to pay online.
- 47% prefer debit cards for everyday purchases, while 40% rely on credit cards for big-ticket items like electronics.
- 43% worry about fraud when using digital payments.
- 39% list hidden fees as a major frustration.
- Only 1% use mobile wallets for major purchases like travel, and just 2% for fashion or accessories.
- 18% are open to wearable payments – but only if they bring clear benefits without extra complexity.
For businesses, that means giving Boomers a clear reason to try something new.
“Boomers won’t switch to new payment methods just because they’re available; they need a real reason to do so,” Hedjri added. “With omnichannel payment platforms like PXP Unity, businesses can enhance security, simplify transactions, and provide slick, hassle-free payment solutions that meet clients’ expectations.”
The bottom line: for Boomers, payment technology should feel safe, simple, and familiar, because when trust is on the line, security always beats novelty.
You can read the full PXP report here.
By Jeff Domansky, Managing Editor