pankkaart

A pankkaart, or bank card, is a plastic card issued by a bank to a customer that enables electronic payments and cash withdrawals. It is typically linked to the holder’s bank account and secured with a personal identification number (PIN). In the Netherlands the term pankkaart is commonly used to refer to the standard debit card issued by banks.

Technology and networks

Modern pankarten use EMV chip technology and may also have a magnetic stripe. They operate on payment networks such as Mastercard Debit, Visa Debit, and, historically, Maestro. Many Dutch cards support contactless payments through near-field communication, allowing small purchases to be paid by tapping the card at a compatible terminal. Cards can be used at point-of-sale terminals for in-person transactions and at ATMs for cash withdrawals.

Usage

In a store, the card is presented by insertion or contactless tap, followed by entering the PIN or confirming the transaction for low-value payments. For online or card-not-present purchases, card details and security codes are provided, often with additional authentication such as 3D Secure. Banks may impose limits on contactless transactions and require PIN verification for higher amounts or after a certain number of consecutive payments.

Security and scope

Pankarten are a primary method of everyday payments in the Netherlands and many parts of Europe. They are designed to be used securely in conjunction with PIN protection, card verification, and, increasingly, biometric or device-based authentication within mobile wallets. In addition to physical cards, banks often offer digital alternatives that store card data in mobile wallets or online banking apps.

Variants and relation to other payment methods

Typically pankarten refer to debit cards linked to a bank account. Credit cards and prepaid cards are distinct products offered by banks or networks but may also be used alongside pankarten as part of a broader payment portfolio.