February 05, 2025

Revolution in Credit Cards: Mastercard Plans to Eliminate Numbers from Physical Cards Permanently

Digital Security as a Priority

In an increasingly digitalized world, electronic fraud and data breaches are constant threats. Traditional card numbers, along with expiration dates and security codes (CVV), are data that cybercriminals seek to steal to commit fraud. Despite security advancements such as two-factor authentication and EMV chips, the risk of data theft remains a concern for consumers.

To mitigate these risks, Mastercard is implementing tokenization technology. This system assigns a unique and temporary number for each transaction, meaning that even if the data is intercepted, the generated number cannot be reused. This significantly reduces the likelihood of fraud.

Biometric Authentication and Contactless Payments

Another pillar of this strategy is the integration of biometric authentication technologies, such as facial recognition and fingerprint scanning. These solutions allow users to authorize payments securely without relying on printed data on a physical card.

Furthermore, the removal of numbers from physical cards reinforces the trend toward contactless payments and digital wallets. Applications like Apple Pay, Google Pay, and other platforms are gaining traction, enabling users to perform transactions quickly and securely without carrying a physical card.

The Future of Credit Cards

The transition toward a digital payment ecosystem also impacts the usability of credit cards. According to Mastercard's 'New Payment Index' study, 82% of Colombian consumers expect to buy what they want, when they want, in the most convenient way for them.

With this measure, Mastercard anticipates a future where physical cards could become obsolete, making way for virtual solutions and payments integrated into smart devices. This strategy also promotes the adoption of virtual cards, which are already being issued by banks and fintech platforms for online transactions without needing a physical card.

Ultimately, removing numbers from physical cards is a key step toward a more secure and digitally adapted financial system. Mastercard is leading this revolution with technologies that protect user information and facilitate a more efficient and reliable payment experience.