When you swipe or insert a credit card into the card reader, the machine will receive information such as your account number and credit limits. If the magnetic strip on the card is damaged, the card reader will not be able to obtain the information necessary to approve the purchase. The process of magnetic stripping that loses the ability to communicate this information is called demagnetization.
Scratches and general wear are common causes of magnetization, but prolonged exposure to magnets can also ruin the magnetic strips of the card. Luckily, if your credit card has an EMV chip, you don’t have to worry about magnetic damage. This new chip technology has been largely replaced by magnetic strips and is not affected by magnetic damage.
Does magnets ruin your credit card?
Data stored on a credit card magnetic strip includes your name, account number, expiration date, credit limit, card number, and card usage information. The strip also contains information about encrypted pins, country codes, and currency units.
A magnet can erase or scramble that information, which can interfere with your ability to purchase it. However, the exact effect of magnets on credit cards depends on a variety of factors, including the length of exposure and distance from the card.
The longer the card is exposed to the magnet (usually less than 1 inch), the more likely the magnet will erase information on the magnetic strip. Thankfully, multiple long-term interactions with the magnet may be required to harm the card.
Types of magnets that can harm your credit card
Magnetic manetic clips and mobile phone holders can make card transport more convenient, but can cause damage after a while. In some cases, money clips have magnets on either side, making it difficult to create the necessary buffer or distance between the card and magnet, even if there is a leather strip.
On the other hand, mobile phones have very small magnets inside. This means that the outer shell of the phone acts as a buffer between the cards and keeps you safe from potential damage.
It is generally recommended to put your card in your wallet to provide some protection from demagnetization. It is also recommended to face magnetic strips of cards from magnets that may be around, such as fridges or wallet clasps.
Small magnets can be a problem, but it is unlikely to damage the magnetic strips on your card. Meanwhile, strong electromagnetic fields created by certain machines and medical devices (such as microwaves and MRI machines) can easily damage the card. It is best to bring your card near these devices to avoid preventing the possibility of damage.
Other types of card damage
Keeping the magnetic strips on your card away from the magnet is one way to take care of your credit card, but the magnet is not the only cause of damage.
Magnetic strips and EMV chips can maintain damage caused by scratches, for example, by keys and coins. These scratches can make it difficult for the card reader to pick up information on the magnetic strip, and ultimately allow the card to be used. While dirt and oil can also cause problems with magnetic strips, prolonged exposure to liquids can damage the EMV chip, most credit and debit cards utilize water-resistant designs.
The EMV chip is magnet safe
Magnetic strips are becoming almost obsolete these days, so you don’t have to worry too much about magnets that damage your credit card. Instead of swipe magnetic strips, most credit cards can be used to EMV chip Insert it into your card reader or tap to pay Non-contact type.
Fortunately, the EMV chip is not affected by magnets. However, if it is exposed to scratches or water, it can cause damage or cause it to stop working completely.
What should I do if my card is damaged?
If your credit card is damaged, please contact the issuer immediately and report the issue. The issuer may be able to troubleshoot the issue and make the card work again. If that is not possible, the issuer can at least provide a replacement card.
Exchange cards usually take about 3-7 business days to arrive. If you need to use your card earlier, you can ask the issuer to speed up the delivery of your exchange card or perhaps request it. Virtual Card.
What can I do to avoid causing damage to my credit card?
It’s unlikely that you’ll be able to spend your credit card, but that can happen. Here’s how to protect your card and avoid damage to the magnetic strip:
- Do not store your credit card near magnets or other magnetic items. If your wallet or wallet has a magnet, make sure the card’s magnet strips are away from the magnet to avoid damage.
- Use money clips to carry cash only, not credit cards. This is especially true if the money clip is magnetic. Money clips can also be exposed to items that can damage or damage the magnetic strips on your card. Instead, protect the cards in your wallet.
- Do not loosen the card inside the pocket, especially if you are carrying items such as keys or coins in the same pocket. These items can be damaged by mixing the magnetic strips on the card.
- When storing multiple cards in one place, make sure the magnetic strips face each other apart. This includes storing it in your wallet. Long-term exposure to other magnetic items can cause damage.
- Avoid bringing cards near machines or devices that create powerful electromagnetic fields. Examples include an MRI machine and a microwave oven.
- Don’t leave cards in a hot car I’m lying Directly under the sun. Excessive heat can distort the card and damage the magnetic strip.
Conclusion
It’s more likely that your credit card won’t work for other reasons (scratches, warping, account issues, etc.), but magnets and credit cards don’t play well. It’s always a good idea to follow best practices to protect your cards from disappearance.
That being said, credit and debit cards with magnetic strips are quickly becoming obsolete. Can avoid magnetic stripping issues Switch to a more modern card Comes with an EMV chip. It’s not indeed certainthese cards tend to provide a higher level of security while avoiding issues related to magnetic strips.
