

Each track holds distinct types and amounts of data.Ĭredit cards primarily use the first two tracks to store cardholder’s information like the account number, name, expiration date, service code, and card verification code. The magnetic strip on the card includes three “tracks,” horizontally stacked across the length of the card.

Magnetic stripe cards are made up of a magnetic strip of tape attached to a plastic card for card-present transactions. This information, when used with a point-of-sale (POS) system, transmits the relevant data to the card issuer to approve or deny transactions. Magnetic card technology can also store security functions. These cards are typically 2-inch by 3-inch plastic credit or debit cards, although magnetic stripes are used on many kinds of cards.įor payment cards, the information embedded in the magnetic stripe card includes the cardholder’s information like name, address, account number, and account balances. This happens when the card is swiped through a magnetic stripe card reader to authorize a purchase. Magnetic stripe cards are cards that use magnetic labels to transmit financial information to the card issuer.
