Card-present transaction

Card-present transaction occurs when a customer physically presents their payment card, such as a credit or debit card, to a merchant for an in-person purchase. This transaction type is prevalent in traditional retail environments where customers physically interact with merchants at the .

During a card-present transaction, the merchant uses a card reader or terminal to capture the card's information and initiate the payment process. The customer typically provides a signature or enters a Personal Identification Number (PIN) to authenticate the transaction.

Card-present transactions are generally considered more secure than transactions, as the physical presence of the card adds an extra layer of verification. While advancements in technology have introduced and mobile payment options, card-present transactions remain foundational in in-store retail experiences, combining convenience with established security measures.