Multiple Cardholders Experiencing Changes to their EC Cards with Potential Payment Disruptions
Sparkasse Introduces Loyalty Points Collection on EC Cards
Starting July 1, 2025, Sparkasse customers will be able to collect loyalty points using their EC cards, thanks to a new modification announced by the bank. This innovative feature is made possible through a partnership with Payback, allowing customers to earn points that can be redeemed for various travel and everyday benefits.
How it Works
To take advantage of this new function, customers must first ensure they have a Payback account. Registration can be done online, and once completed, customers can link their Girocard with Payback by logging in to their online banking or Sparkasse app. After selection of the Girocard, the user will be automatically redirected to Payback to complete the process.
Participation in S-Vorteilwelt, Sparkasse's own loyalty programme, is also required for the new EC card function. The current point balance can be found at the end of the S-Vorteilwelt.
Ease of Use
With this modification, the need to show the Payback app will be eliminated, as purchases made with the Sparkasse EC Card will automatically earn points. Additionally, customers can pay and collect points with the same card, reducing the number of cards in their wallet.
Data Security
Some customers have expressed concerns about the disclosure and potential misuse of their personal data with this new function. However, it's important to note that only the Payback customer number is relevant for data disclosure. IBAN or BIC concerns about data disclosure are unfounded.
Activation and Requirements
The loyalty points collection function is not activated automatically; it must be activated once and does not need to be repeated before each purchase. To activate the function, customers typically need to link their card to their Payback account, which can be done through bank online services or mobile banking apps offered by Sparkasse.
This new integration enhances the Sparkasse EC Card by combining everyday banking with the Lufthansa Group’s extensive loyalty network of over 36 million participants and more than 175 international partners.
For more detailed activation instructions, Sparkasse customers are advised to contact their regional Sparkasse branch or check the Sparkasse online banking platform.
Customers can link their Girocard with Payback via online banking or the Sparkasse app to participate in the new EC card function, pairing their everyday banking with the Lufthansa Group’s extensive loyalty network. Data security is ensured, as only the Payback customer number is relevant for data disclosure, and IBAN or BIC concerns about data disclosure are unfounded.
