A combination of good high-speed internet coverage, high digital literacy rates, large rural populations and fast-growing fintech industries had put the Nordic neighbours on a fast track to a future without cash.
[…]
But Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in 2022 and a subsequent rise in cross-border hybrid warfare and cyber-attacks blamed on pro-Russia groups have prompted a rethink.
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The Swedish government has since completely overhauled its defence and preparedness strategy, joining Nato, starting a new form of national service and reactivating its psychological defence agency to combat disinformation from Russia and other adversaries. Norway has tightened controls on its previously porous border with Russia.
[…]
[Norway’s] justice and public security ministry said it “recommends everyone keep some cash on hand due to the vulnerabilities of digital payment solutions to cyber-attacks”. It said the government took preparedness seriously “given the increasing global instability with war, digital threats, and climate change. As a result, they’ve ensured that the right to pay with cash is strengthened”.
[…]
When countries try to remove cash I always think how easy it sill be to control the protests when the goverment could turn off your money.
Neoliberals prioritising the interests of the rich (and only care if those are under threat) while ignoring their impact on the poor? Say it ain’t so!
Nobody’s refusing payments in cash. The articles you’re linking were during covid, an entirely different context
Yeah, I live in Sweden and 90% of places I go don’t do cash.
basically the only places that reliably accept cash these days are grocery stores, what are you on about?
I have yet to encounter a place that will refuse to take my cash if I tell them I have no other method of payment. They may not be eager to, but they can’t stop you from leaving.
