How To Swipe A Credit Card Without Messing It Up

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Introduction

Now a days Credit Card has became a very important part of individuals for completing their needs. With Credit Cards People prefer to do shopping, travel or any other service payment, without cash. That’s why, if you want know ” How To Swipe A Credit Card ” , then this article is for you. This article will provide you important information about swiping the Credit Card.

In this article, we will discuss about the instruments required for swiping the card, in addition we will discuss about the secured and correct way to swipe using the swipe machine. We will also provide you important information , which you have to care while swiping the card.

Whether you’ve never swiped a credit card before or have not experienced yet, this article will provide you step by step guide to understand about ” How To Swipe A Credit Card “.

What does it mean to swipe a Credit Card?

ing a Credit card means, Passing the magnetic strip of the credit card through magnetic stripe reader. There is a coded information in the magnetic strip behind the Credit card, Such as Card holder name, Account details ,card number and validity details of credit card. When you swipe your credit card, the magnetic stripe reader reads this information and sends this information to Point of Sale (POS) System. POS system uses this information for the purpose of transaction.

Now a days credit card transactions are lowering down as more merchants are adopting chip card readers. This is because chip card are more secured as compared to Magnetic Strip card, as these card uses chip for storing the information of card holder. And also it is difficult to clone chip cards as compared to magnetic strip credit cards.

While some of the merchants still uses only swiping card transactions. If are unaware of this, you can always ask the cashier.

How To Swipe A Credit Card : Step By Step Process

Choosing the Right Card Reader

Conventional magnetic stripe reader:

These are the old types of Card Readers, for this there is a magnetic strip behind Credit card, and the personal information ,Account details ,card number and validity details of credit card are coded in this strip. In these, data is read from the magnetic stripe of your credit card. You have to make the payment by swiping your card through the reader.

Chip and Pin Technology:

This modern technology provides a high level of security. There is a chip in your credit card that holds your all information. You must first place your card into the reader before entering your PIN (rejected). Your personal information is protected from unauthorised access thanks to this technology.

Contactless Payment Options:

The advantage of this option is that it eliminates the need to touch your card to the reader. Simply place your card near the reader to complete the transaction. This technology helps you to do transactions with a very fast speed.

In this process, you have to select the appropriate card reader, which can be as per the type of credit card you have and your preferences. Note that select a trusted and certified reader to ensure adequate security.

Preparing your Credit Card for Swipe:

Card Activation and Verification:

Card activation and verification means that you have to activate your credit card and verify your identity. For this you have to follow the instructions provided by the bank wherein you have to complete the activation process by calling on the number provided with your card or through the online portal. This allows your card to be used.

Checking Card Expiry Date:

It is important to check the card expiry date. With this you can be sure whether your card is valid to be swiped or not. If the card expiry date has passed, you need to get a new card. So, keep this aspect in mind and keep checking the expiry date of your card regularly.

Ensuring Adequate Credit Limit:

Credit limit is the amount of credit available on your card. This is decided by the bank and depends on the amount you can make purchases based on your account. Before swiping, you need to make sure that your credit limit is sufficient to complete your purchase. If your credit limit is not sufficient, you may need to take necessary steps to add more credit to your account.

Swiping the Credit Card

While it is fading away, but still it is important to know about ,How To Swipe A Credit Card Correctly. It is because some of the merchants still use swiping machine

Step 1 : Make sure the card reader is turned on

Some card readers require you to power them on before you can swipe your card. If the card reader is not functional, credit will not be processed.

Step 2: Position the magnetic strip

The magnetic strip is on the back of your credit card. It is a black strip containing small bumps. Position the magnetic strip so that it is facing down and in the middle of the card reader slot.

Step 3: Swipe the card from top to bottom

Once the magnetic strip is in the slot, Swipe the card from top to bottom. Do not attempt to move the card or force it through the slot.

Step 4: Wait for the transaction to be approved

After swiping the card, you have to enter the pin of the Card then the card reader will contact your credit card company to authenticate your information. If your information is correct, the credit will be approved.

What are the Precautions while swiping credit card in public places?

While swiping the Credit Card you should take care of the following:

Be aware of your surroundings : Make sure the environment is well-lit and that there are no suspicious individuals nearby if you are using your credit or debit card in any store.
Protect your card from sight : While swiping the Card make sure to cover it by your hand.
Inspect the card reader: Make sure the card reader is clear of junk and clean before you swipe your card. Use caution if the card reader appears to be broken or tampered with.
Cover your hand over the keypad when entering your PIN: This will prevent your PIN from leaking.
Check your statements regularly: Review your Card statement every month carefully and check whether any extra charges are cut or not.

How To Swipe A Credit Card (FAQ’s)

Is it safe to swipe my credit card?

Swiping your credit card is generally safe, but there are some risks involved. The magnetic strip on your credit card contains your card number, expiration date, and other important information. If this information is stolen, it could be used to make fraud activity in your account.

What should I do if my credit card gets declined during a swipe?

If your credit card gets declined during a swipe, there are a few things you can do:

Check your card information.
Check your credit limit.
Check the merchant's terminal.
Call your credit card company.

How To Swipe A Credit Card: Conclusion

In short, in Today’s world it is important to be perfect in swiping a credit Card. Because Credit Card has become an important part of our Life, so understanding the process is paramount. This guideline Discussed above tell’s complete detail’s about How To Swipe A Credit Card in step by step Manner. Whereas chip technology is increasing , swiping is still available at some places. Being alert while swiping helps us in avoiding the tentative risks. Regular analysis helps us in identifying the problems involved. Generally it is secure but still we have to be alert regarding the risks involved. If any swipe is declined then it be resolved by following some simple steps.

How to Swipe a Credit Card Without Messing It Up