Key Takeaways
- Magnets can damage credit cards by erasing data stored on the magnetic strip.
- The risk is not from the magnet’s strength but from prolonged exposure.
- Everyday items like fridge magnets, security tag deactivators, and electromagnetic devices can cause demagnetization.
- If your card becomes demagnetized, you can still complete transactions with manual entry, but you’ll need to replace the card.
Purchasing with your credit or debit card is typically hassle-free, especially with the rise of contactless payments.
However, sometimes you may run into an issue where your card won’t scan. No need to panic—this is a common problem, and it usually points to a fault in your card’s magnetic strip.
How Do Magnets Work in Credit Cards?
Credit and debit cards contain a magnetic strip, or “magstrip,” which stores crucial information.
This strip is made up of tiny iron-based particles that can be magnetized in different directions to relay information such as your name, account number, and spending limits.
A device called a solenoid encodes this information by producing a strong magnetic field that arranges the particles accordingly.
Can a Magnet Erase the Information on a Credit Card?
Yes, magnets can damage credit cards by erasing the information on the magnetic strip. This process, called demagnetization, can render your card useless.
Even though modern cards are increasingly moving to chip technology, many cards still use magnetic strips, which are vulnerable to magnet exposure.
According to experts, it’s not necessarily the strength of the magnet but the duration of exposure that causes damage. For instance, even a standard fridge magnet can demagnetize a card if it remains in close contact for too long.
Common Sources of Magnet Exposure
Magnets are built into many everyday items, increasing the risk of accidental demagnetization. Here are a few common places where your card could be exposed to strong magnets:
Refrigerator Door Magnets: The powerful magnets that keep your fridge door shut can erase your card’s data almost instantly.
MRI Machines: These machines contain incredibly strong magnetic fields.
Wallet & Purse Magnets: While most purse magnets aren’t strong enough, prolonged contact can still erase data.
Security Tag Deactivators: Found at checkout counters, these machines can demagnetize your card if placed too close.
Electromagnetic Fields: Devices such as mobile phones and cameras emit fields strong enough to interfere with your card’s magnetic strip.
What to Do if Your Credit Card Becomes Demagnetized
If your card becomes demagnetized, don’t worry. Cashiers can manually enter your card details (16-digit number, expiration date, and CVV) to process the transaction.
However, you’ll need to contact your bank to request a new card as a long-term solution.
Preventing Credit Card Demagnetization
To keep your card safe, store it away from magnets and devices with strong electromagnetic fields. Using a sleeve or RFID-blocking wallet can also help prevent accidental exposure.
Goudsmit UK
At Goudsmit UK we sub-contract manufacture a vast variety of magnets and magnetic assemblies to suit your requirements. Contact us today for more information at info@goudsmit.co.uk or on +44 (0) 2890 271 001.
For more information download our products and services brochure.
