How AI-enabled security features shape payment security perceptions and trust in digital payment systems

Despite the growing popularity of digital payment (d-payment) systems across Africa, digital threats continue to undermine users’ confidence and assurance of safe use. As payment technologies evolve, new security mechanisms and trust-building features are increasingly embedded into digital payment platforms. In this study, we examine the factors shaping users’ perceptions of security assurance mechanisms and trust in d-payment systems, and how these perceptions influence their likelihood of adoption. A conceptual framework was developed by adapting constructs from existing literature, and data were collected through a survey of 300 purposefully selected users in Ghana. Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) was used to analyse the relationships between the identified constructs, and advanced analytics were applied to uncover underlying patterns in user behavior. The findings indicate that transaction procedures and technical safeguards significantly influence users’ perceived security and trust. Moreover, perceptions of security statements strongly predict users’ intention to use digital payment systems (DPS). The study highlights how emerging security safeguards—such as real-time fraud detection, anomaly monitoring, and biometric authentication—can strengthen security perceptions and accelerate adoption. These insights provide practical guidance for policymakers, financial institutions, and system developers seeking to promote safe and trusted d-payment systems among users in developing economies.