Kortti

Kortti is the Finnish word for a flat, typically rectangular object that carries information or enables a function. It is used for a wide range of cards, both tangible and digital, and covers objects from playing cards to identification and payment tools. The term appears in many compound forms that name specific kinds of cards, such as pelikortti (playing card), pankkikortti or maksukortti (bank or payment card), henkilökortti (identity card), SIM-kortti (SIM card), and käyntikortti (business card).

Physical and digital formats share common characteristics. Most cards are manufactured in a standard size used internationally: ISO/IEC 7810 ID-1, about 85.60 by 53.98 millimeters. Many cards embed technologies such as magnetic stripes, embedded chips (smart cards), or contactless communication (NFC/RFID). Security features may include PINs, cryptographic data, and anti-fraud measures. In addition to physical cards, digital or virtual cards exist within mobile wallets or online services, functioning as card representations without a physical form.

Common uses span everyday finances, identification, access control, transportation, and loyalty programs. Bank and payment cards enable electronic transactions; identity and access cards verify a person’s credentials; business cards convey contact information; SIM cards provide mobile network access. The word kortti thus encompasses a broad spectrum of devices and formats, reflecting the central role of cards in modern transactions and identity verification.