What’s not to like about being cashless? I quite often only carry my smart phone with me these days. Much easier and more comfortable.

Unless you believe it’s all done by big brother to keep taps on, and control, us.

Whilst I agree, the other end of the spectrum is to absolutely believe everything those with power; political, financial, both or otherwise, tell you and trust them/that.

Most conspiracy theories are laughable, and almost all come from unreliable sources let alone evidence bases, however to think the aforementioned individuals and institutions are playing it straight 100% of the time is far more concerning IMHO.

There is, always has been, and almost certainly will always be, corruption and wrongdoing at the highest levels of society. There will also be incompetence and just downright idiocy as well. Cooking up 'conspiracy theories' is just as wild as any 'OK Pluto' following along with what you're being told. A healthy scepticism and informed decision making should be the priority for individuals, not just adopting a stance and gluing yourself to that position.

Shrodingers Cat is my preference, I'm not well informed enough to stand on either side of the fence, but nor is anyone else IMHO. I'll take each juncture as it comes and make decisions 'to the best of my ability'.

NatWest adding fuel to the "conspiracy theories"

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Possessing data that can provide a useful guide to consumer habits which can then help determine future policy isn’t a threat to anyone. It’s a benefit.

So too would be the ability of the police to know where a stolen card is being used in real time.

For the ordinary law abiding citizen there is nothing to fear at all.

If your carbon footprint is not below the standard this month then you cannot access your money....

Unless you're a celebrity on your way to a climate protest.