Point-of-Sale Entry Mode

Point-of-Sale Entry Mode refers to the various methods through which the card number (PAN, or Primary Account Number) is entered or transmitted to a payment terminal during a transaction. This mode is critical as it determines the security and efficiency of the data entry process at the point of sale. The entry mode can vary based on the technology available at the merchant location and the type of card or payment method being used by the customer.

Common Types of Entry Modes:

Each entry mode has specific security implications and operational requirements. Keyed entry, for example, generally poses a higher risk for errors and fraud compared to swiped or NFC entries, as the card is not physically verified by the terminal. Conversely, NFC is considered among the most secure and fastest methods due to its encrypted and brief communication range.

Understanding and selecting the appropriate point-of-sale entry mode is crucial for merchants to ensure transaction security, efficiency, and compliance with payment processing standards. This choice impacts the overall customer experience and the operational flow at the point of sale.