Zelle Discontinues Standalone Mobile Application, Yet Service Continues via Banks
Zelle has officially ceased operations of its independent mobile application as of Tuesday, but the digital payment platform will persist through its vast network of banking collaborations.
With more than 2,200 banks and financial institutions connected to Zelle’s framework, only around 2% of users utilized the Zelle app exclusively. The overwhelming majority of transactions are conducted directly through users’ banking applications or online banking services. Pointing to this shift, Zelle initiated the gradual removal of its app in 2023.
“Currently, the vast majority of individuals using Zelle for money transfers do so via their financial institution’s mobile application or online banking system, and we feel this is the optimal environment for Zelle transactions to take place,” the company stated in an October 2024 press announcement.
Zelle has come under fire in recent months. In December, the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB), in conjunction with three prominent U.S. banks, initiated a lawsuit against Zelle, claiming the platform did not establish sufficient fraud prevention measures—leading to customer losses surpassing $870 million. However, the lawsuit was withdrawn in early 2024 after the inauguration of a new U.S. president who is known for opposing financial regulations.
Despite the dismissal of the case, worries regarding fraud continue. For instance, Chase Bank has started restraining certain Zelle transactions it considers questionable to safeguard customers against scams.
Zelle stands as one of several well-known peer-to-peer payment services, including Venmo, PayPal, Apple Wallet, Revolut, and Cash App. Experts recommend users to remain vigilant when utilizing any of these platforms.
“Always send money to individuals you know and trust, and be alert for warning signs such as urgent messages appearing to be from your bank or online advertisements for concert tickets that seem unrealistically affordable,” cautions Kelly Ernst of CNET.
As Zelle shifts away from its standalone application, users are encouraged to keep accessing the service through their bank’s official outlets.