Makseplaadi

Makseplaadi is a Finnish term that translates to "payment chip" or "payment card" in English. It refers to a physical card that stores and facilitates financial transactions. While the term can broadly encompass various types of payment cards, it is most commonly associated with debit and credit cards. These cards are typically made of plastic and contain a magnetic stripe, an integrated circuit chip, and often a contactless payment antenna.

The primary function of a makseplaadi is to enable secure and convenient payments. When used, the card interacts with a payment terminal, either through swiping the magnetic stripe, inserting the chip, or tapping the card for contactless transactions. This interaction transmits the cardholder's financial information to the issuing bank or financial institution for authorization. The chip technology, often referred to as EMV, enhances security by generating unique transaction codes, making it more difficult for counterfeit cards to be used.

Makseplaadi are widely used for purchasing goods and services in physical stores, online, and for withdrawing cash from ATMs. The adoption of these cards has significantly reduced reliance on cash for many transactions. Different types of makseplaadi exist, including those linked directly to a bank account (debit cards) and those that allow users to borrow funds to make purchases (credit cards). The specific features and functionalities can vary depending on the card issuer and the type of card.