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"PIN encryption"

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Diagram of PIN Encryption Key (PEK) structure

HSM & Security

What is PEK (Pin Encryption Key)?

PEK is the abbreviation for Pin Encryption Key. The role of PEK is to encrypt PINs. There are two types of PEK: TPK (Terminal Pin Key) and ZWK (Zone Working Key).

PIN pad device connected to a POS terminal

Merchant & POS

What Is a PIN Pad Device?

A PIN pad lets cardholders safely enter their PIN during POS transactions and lets contactless cards be tapped to transfer card data to the POS. Here is how it works.

Diagram illustrating the structure of ISO 8583 Field 53, PIN Encryption Control Information

Online & Authorization

ISO 8583 Field Descriptions (F53)

F53 - PIN Encryption Control Information. When online PIN data is present, sending the F53 value is mandatory, except when DUKPT information is carried in Field 63, Tag 01. F53 consists of the following components.

Diagram of symmetric key types used in payment systems

HSM & Security

Types of Symmetric Keys

In the world of payment systems, keys and their uses are important for transferring information from one place to another, storing information, and securing authorization and scripting steps. Key types are divided into six categories based on their purpose.

ISO 8583 field 52 PIN data encrypted PIN block

ISO 8583

ISO 8583 Field Descriptions (F52)

DE 52 — Personal Identification Number (PIN) Data: the field that holds the PIN data. PIN verification is carried out based on this field.

Illustration of a Zone PIN Key (ZPK) protecting PIN data in a payment network

HSM & Security

What is ZPK (Zone PIN Key)?

ZPK, also known as the PIN Protection Key, is a data encryption key that is distributed automatically and used to encrypt PINs. It is also referred to as the 'Working Key'. This key allows PIN information to be carried securely across the network.

Diagram illustrating Terminal PIN Key (TPK) usage in POS and ATM devices

HSM & Security

What is TPK (Terminal PIN Key)?

TPK stands for Terminal PIN Key. It is a data encryption key used to encrypt PINs for transmission between a terminal and the terminal's bank (acquirer) within a local network. Learn how TPK is used in POS and ATM devices.

ATM PIN pad used for entering a card PIN

ATM

How is PIN verification performed at an ATM?

At payment points such as ATMs and POS terminals, the most critical step is PIN verification or verifying the customer through their identity information. However, since ATMs cannot verify a customer's identity, PIN verification becomes more important. So how is it performed?

Diagram illustrating the Remote Key Loading (RKL) process

ATM

What Is RKL (Remote Key Loading)?

RKL is the process of distributing a TMK (Terminal Master Key) to each terminal from a central point. It is used to remotely load keys onto POS and ATM devices, loading TMKs onto an ATM's keypad or activating them on a POS.

Photo of a Pin Entry Device (PIN pad) used for card payments

Merchant & POS

What is a Pin Entry Device (PED)?

Pin Entry Device is another name for the PIN pad device we all know and use daily. It makes it easier for users to enter their card PIN during POS transactions with credit or debit cards, and is used for contactless card reading...

Diagram illustrating the PIN Change/Unblock command process

EMV

What Is Pin Change/Unblock?

The Pin Change/Unblock command is used after card issuance to let the issuer remove a card's PIN block, or instantly change the reference PIN and remove its block, as well.

Zone Working Key PIN encryption between banks

HSM & Security

What Is ZWK (Zone Working Key)?

ZWK stands for Zone Working Key. It encrypts the PIN so that it can travel securely between different financial institutions, such as the acquiring bank and the issuing bank.