Kaardivõrgustikud

Kaardivõrgustikud, also known as card networks or payment networks, are the essential infrastructure that enables electronic transactions between consumers, merchants, and financial institutions. These networks facilitate the movement of funds and transaction data when a credit or debit card is used for a purchase. Key players in a kaardivõrgustik include the cardholder, the merchant, the issuing bank (which issued the card to the consumer), the acquiring bank (which processes transactions for the merchant), and the card network itself.

When a card is used, the transaction details are sent by the merchant's acquiring bank to the card network. The network then routes this information to the cardholder's issuing bank for authorization. The issuing bank checks if the card is valid, if there are sufficient funds or credit available, and if the transaction is potentially fraudulent. If authorized, the approval or denial message is sent back through the network to the acquiring bank and then to the merchant. This entire process typically happens in seconds.

Major global kaardivõrgustikud include Visa, Mastercard, American Express, and Discover. These networks establish the rules and standards for transactions, manage the complex routing of data, and ensure the security and integrity of the payment system. They also play a role in dispute resolution and chargeback processes. The efficiency and reliability of kaardivõrgustikud are crucial for modern commerce, supporting both online and in-person purchases worldwide.