It's a security thing. For years we've relied on usernames and passwords but as these are not very secure, newer means of authenticating are being rolled out. If you can use your credit card on your phone to pay, I guess the NFC system on your phone works. If so, it should also enable you to read the passport chip, unless there's something wrong with the chip, but a newer passport in a not too damaged state should be readable.
I hope you can get it to work!