Danmarks Nationalbank has issued new recommendations following the widespread Nets outage this summer, urging citizens to keep at least 250 kroner in cash per household member. The goal is simple: ensure that everyone can still make payments if digital systems fail.
The July incident—when card payments across Denmark were down for roughly three hours—served as a wake-up call. According to the Nationalbank, such breakdowns, along with recent power outages in southern Europe, highlight how vulnerable even advanced payment systems can be.
“Our payment system is strong and secure, but these events show that both citizens and businesses must be prepared to use alternative methods, including offline payments,” said Ulrik Nødgaard, Director of Danmarks Nationalbank.
A Specific Cash Guideline
While the bank has long advised households to keep some cash on hand, this is the first time it has set a clear figure. The 250 kroner per person is meant as a baseline—enough to handle short-term disruptions. The Nationalbank also recommends keeping smaller notes and coins to make it easier for shops to provide change when cash usage spikes.
Multiple Ways to Pay
The Nationalbank stresses the importance of having several payment options available. Households should have at least two physical payment cards from different issuers, alongside a mobile payment solution like MobilePay that allows direct account transfers.
People should also make sure they remember their PIN codes—offline card payments typically require them. These payments can work even if the online card systems are down, provided that shops are set up to accept them.
Preparing the Retail Sector
For businesses, the message is just as clear: be ready to handle offline card transactions. The Nationalbank is working with banks and retailers so that, by the end of the year, all physical payment cards—as well as Apple Pay and Google Pay—can be used offline at pharmacies and nationwide grocery chains.
“Offline card payments are a key safeguard,” said Nødgaard. “They keep transactions running when the systems go dark. But for that to work, both citizens and stores need to be ready.”
The updated recommendations reflect lessons learned not just from the Nets outage, but from broader power failures across Europe. As Nødgaard put it, “These events remind us that having a bit of cash on hand isn’t outdated—it’s practical.”