Summary
- EMV Chip Security – Why Cloning Fails:* Modern cards have EMV Chip and PIN.
- State Bank of Pakistan Rules – PIN Limit:* State Bank of Pakistan has allowed banks to relax PIN for transactions up to PKR 3,000.
- To eliminate risk of skimming, SBP has directed that ATM and POS networks in Pakistan should only accept EMV Chip and PIN compliant payment cards.
LAHORE : A viral claim says as you pass by someone with an NFC device, data from your ATM and credit cards in your pocket will be automatically copied. Minute Mirror Fact-Check finds what is true.
*1. How NFC Actually Works – Technical Fact:*
NFC works only at extremely short range. According to NFC standard and security experts, NFC means Near Field Communication, a short-range wireless technology that lets two devices exchange data when they are held within about 4 centimeters of each other. In reality, NFC requires close proximity (a few centimeters) and long-range reads are not realistic with standard cards. da167834
NFC operates at extremely short range, typically less than 4 cm, and card must be very close and properly aligned. 9e22
*2. EMV Chip Security – Why Cloning Fails:*
Modern cards have EMV Chip and PIN. EMV contactless uses dynamic cryptograms. The data captured from a tap can’t be reused to make a valid purchase. Most contactless data does not expose your name, full PAN, or the 3-digit CVV used for online purchases. 7834
The chip directly interacts with terminal to authenticate transaction, providing enhanced security against counterfeit fraud. f34e
*3. State Bank of Pakistan Rules – PIN Limit:*
State Bank of Pakistan has allowed banks to relax PIN for transactions up to PKR 3,000. Banks depending on their risk management may decide amount exempted from PIN on contactless.
For transactions above PKR 3,000, a secure 4-digit PIN is required.
To eliminate risk of skimming, SBP has directed that ATM and POS networks in Pakistan should only accept EMV Chip and PIN compliant payment cards.
*4. Is NFC Skimming Possible?*
Yes in labs, but very difficult on street. Thief needs illegal POS within 2-4 cm for several seconds. Cannot bypass OTP and cannot clone chip due to one-time cryptogram.
*5. How to Stay Safe:*
– Turn off contactless if not used
– Use RFID blocking wallet
– Set low contactless limit via banking app
– Enable transaction alerts
– Use mobile wallets – tokenization
*Bottom Line:*
NFC street copying is technically possible but not automatic mass copying as claimed. Risk is minimal as per current EMV security standards.
We welcome your contributions! Submit your blogs, opinion pieces, press releases, news story pitches, and news features to opinion@minutemirror.com.pk and minutemirrormail@gmail.com
