Do cashless societies seem inevitable, or will physical currency be used in some form forever?

The way we use money has changed as a result of rapid technological advancements.

In many countries, online or digital transactions are becoming more common, whether through debit and credit cards, PayPal, Apple Pay, and 'shop now, pay later' services.

A cash-free world could lower crime rates because automatic paper trails will make money laundering more difficult.

And cash management costs would be reduced since international payments would become much more accessible.

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The disadvantages of a cashless society could include the risk of hacking and the exposure of private data.

You may be unable to access funds due to technological problems, and something as simple as a phone battery running out could leave you penniless.

Is the public ready to embrace the new age of online transactions? Is there still skepticism surrounding the idea that our data will be uploaded and stored in private 'cloud' systems, where every transaction will be logged by banks. 

Going cashless is a positive for shop owner Jas Shembi, who says "it helps to keep track of your sales and work on your accounting."

While poet Elisha Gabb is worried about a cashless society, telling CGTN: "it's scary giving away so many details."