Embossing credit cards is a security feature that has been around for decades. It's a process where the card number and cardholder's name are raised above the card's surface, making it difficult to counterfeit.
In the early days of credit cards, embossing was the primary method used to prevent counterfeiting. This was particularly important in the 1950s, when credit cards first started to gain popularity.
The first credit card, the Diners Club card, was introduced in 1950 and featured embossed card numbers and names. This design choice was a deliberate attempt to make counterfeiting more difficult.
Embossing has remained a crucial security feature to this day, with many credit card companies still using it to protect their customers' financial information.
Your Cards
Embossing options for your cards include embossed personalization with alpha or numeric characters, frequently used for credit card numbering. This traditional form of personalization is a high-value look that can be achieved with gold, silver, or black colored tipping on the raised characters.
Embossed fonts are standard worldwide, with 7 CPI (Characters Per Inch) large numeric characters and 10 CPI (Character Per Inch) small alpha or numeric characters available. The 7 CPI font can have 21 characters per line, while the 10 CPI font can have 30 characters per line.
The standard card will allow 5 lines of 7CPI font or 6 lines of 10 CPI font.
Instant Financial Card Issuance
The Privelio XT from Evolis is capable of instantly issuing embossed credit and debit cards.
This process is ultra secure and complies with international banking standards. The patented Kineclipse process masks any residual sensitive card holder data left on the printing ribbon.
The electromechanical locking system prevents access to the cards, ribbon, and internal parts of the machine.
Privelio XT provides dedicated encoding features for full payment card personalization, including magnetic stripe, EMV contact, and contactless chips.
Here are some key features of the Privelio XT:
Encoding magnetic stripe, monochrome printing, embossing + rear indenting: 64 s per cardCan print and encode a card in 64 seconds2-year warrantyBacked by a 2-year warranty
Special Considerations
In 2008, Visa gave financial institutions the option to choose between embossed and laser-printed cards for their clients. This change was made to save time and money.
Visa and MasterCard now offer unembossed card options for their clients. This is especially useful because payment cards today have chip functionality, making payment and processing almost instantaneous.
Many financial institutions still provide embossed cards and manual processing services to merchants. This type of payment processing requires considerably more time for the merchant and has a much higher risk.
Despite the option, unembossed cards haven't become the norm.
History of Cards
Embossing credit cards has a rich history that dates back to a time when electronic payment cards were first introduced. The use of physical impressions for payment card transactions was a necessity back then.
Electronic payment cards were first introduced, and embossed card processing was heavily utilized. Merchants relied on this method for transactions.
The use of physical impressions for payment card transactions faded as newer technology developed. This newer technology provided for faster and more efficient processing.
Some merchants may still have equipment that allows them to make carbon impressions. These impressions are made through the use of a knuckle-buster or zip-zap device.
Merchants may use embossed card devices when electronic terminals are down or when a card is damaged.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you emboss a credit card?
Yes, embossing can be used to create personalized details on credit cards, such as names and account numbers, that can be felt above the card's surface. This process is commonly used in the creation and personalization of financial cards, including credit cards.
Why did they stop embossing credit cards?
Embossing on credit cards is no longer necessary due to the shift to electronic transactions. This change was made possible by the introduction of laser-printed cards, which offer a more efficient and cost-effective alternative.
How does card embossing work?
Card embossing works by applying pressure to a raised die on a recessed die, creating a permanent relief on the card's surface. This technique produces a secure and durable design without the need for heat.
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