In the tokenisation process, security-relevant data, for example the card number (PAN), is replaced by non-critical data that is unusable for data thieves. The aim of the card tokens is to keep the visible card number out of online payment transactions as much as possible.
The Computop-enabled Card Scheme Tokens encrypt other features such as the expiry date or the cardholder's name. In addition, device binding is checked and a unique cryptogram is generated for each new payment transaction. Because the tokens are generated individually for the shops, misuse for other payment transactions is not possible.
With the introduction of the Card Scheme Token, Computop is complementing its pseudo card number (PKN) already introduced in the early 2000s to further strengthen the security of online card payments. Later in the year, the company also plans to issue Scheme Tokens as a white label service to banks and payment service providers. For this purpose, Computop was the first German PSP to receive approval as a token service provider for the two major card brands Visa and Mastercard.