Physical Characteristics

Visa cards that are unembossed have many of the familiar features of Visa credit cards, but there are some differences that are listed below.

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Authorization Process

A Visa card that is unembossed can be used only in electronic terminals that are capable of immediate online authorization. This requirement is aimed at “Card Not Present” chargebacks and helps prove the card was present at the time of transaction.

Where online terminals are unavailable, merchants may follow existing procedures for off-line, paper-based, or call-in authorizations. However, should the transaction be disputed by the Issuer, the merchant is at risk of a "Missing Imprint" or "Card Not Present" chargeback.

Law Enforcement Features

Visa cards that are unembossed continue to feature the following to help law enforcement officials with forensic work involving Visa cards:

• A "VOID" pattern printed directly on the plastic beneath the area covered by the signature panel. The "VOID" pattern becomes visible when all or some of the signature panel is scraped off.
• The manufacturer's identification code showing the manufacturer's name, order number and batch number printed on the back of the card in the area covered by the signature panel.

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