We've all been used to using Chip and PIN when we make debit and credit card payments for so long now, it's hard to remember a time when we had to sign for our purchases.
But you might have noticed something interesting: many new cards no longer include the signature strip that was once standard- though some still do.
So, why did credit cards have signature strips in the first place, and why are they disappearing now?
Let's look at what this means for your security and how it affects you when shopping both at home and abroad.
Card security has evolved dramatically over the years:
The old signature system had obvious issues- signatures are easy to fake, and cashiers rarely checked them carefully.
Chip and PIN significantly improved security by requiring a secret code, but today contactless is the preferred method for smaller purchases (under £100).
For added protection with contactless, card issuers now:
Mobile payments use your phone's facial recognition or fingerprint technology for verification.
So, if these modern systems are so effective, why do some cards still have signature strips?
Since 2018-2019, major card networks have made signatures optional globally. If your newer cards don't have a signature strip, that's by design.
For cards that still include one, it's mainly for:
However, these scenarios are increasingly rare, which is why signature strips are gradually being phased out.
Not really. In most cases these days, signing the back of your credit card isn’t necessary – especially if it doesn’t have a signature strip to begin with.
But, even if it does, retailers are no longer required to check the signature, and most won’t ask you to sign for a purchase.
Contactless lets you make purchases up to £100 just by tapping your card against a reader - no PIN required.
That £100 limit has stayed the same since October 2021. Though many banks now let you adjust your personal limit through your banking app.
Perhaps you're concerned about the safety of contactless. After all, if you're not asked to prove you own the card, a thief won't be either.
That's why contactless has built-in restrictions and safeguards:
Signature strips might be disappearing, but credit cards are more secure than ever thanks to features like:
Today’s cards work hard behind the scenes to keep your money safe — without needing a pen and a signature.
So don’t worry too much about whether your card has a signature strip. What really matters is how well your bank protects you with modern security technology.
Disclaimer: We make every effort to ensure content is correct when published. Information on this website doesn't constitute financial advice, and we aren't responsible for the content of any external sites.
Fiona is a personal finance writer with over 7 years’ experience writing for a broad range of industries before joining Ocean in 2021. She uses her wealth of experience to turn the overwhelming aspects of finance into articles that are easy to understand.
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