Exploring the Different Types of EMV Kernels: How They Boost Card Transaction Security

In this article, we'll explain what an EMV kernel is, explore the different types, and discuss how they improve the security of card-based transactions.

Card-based transactions are now more common than ever in today's digital world. However, with this increase comes a higher risk of fraud and data breaches. To address this, the Europay, Mastercard, and Visa (EMV) consortium created global standards for credit and debit card payments, called EMV. A key part of these standards is the EMV kernel.

What is the EMV Kernel?

An EMV kernel is the software used in an EMV transaction that works on a chip card, payment terminal, or other payment device. It handles the processing and verification of data between the chip card and the terminal.

The EMV kernel plays a crucial role in keeping card transactions secure. It helps protect against various types of fraud, like counterfeit cards, lost or stolen cards, and skimming attacks.

Types of EMV Kernels

There are different types of EMV kernels used for various card transactions. These include:

Contact EMV Kernel

The Contact EMV Kernel is used for chip cards that are inserted into a payment terminal or ATM. The chip on the card connects to the terminal, and the transaction data is transferred through the chip.

Contactless EMV Kernel

The Contactless EMV Kernel is used for contactless payments, where the card is tapped or waved near a payment terminal to start the transaction. The data is exchanged wirelessly using radio frequency (RF) communication between the card and the terminal.

Mobile EMV Kernel

This type of EMV kernel is used for mobile payments made with a smartphone or tablet. The transaction data is stored on the device and exchanged wirelessly using an NFC (Near Field Communication) connection with the payment terminal.

How EMV Kernel Enhances Card-Based Transaction Security

Using the EMV Kernel in card transactions has greatly improved security and lowered the risk of fraud. Here’s how the EMV Kernel boosts security:

Chip-based authentication

EMV kernels use a chip on the card to verify transactions. This chip has a unique identifier that helps confirm the card’s authenticity.

Dynamic authentication

EMV kernels create a unique code for every transaction. This makes it hard for fraudsters to use data from a previous transaction because each code is different and only valid for a single use.

Encryption

EMV kernels use strong encryption to keep transaction data safe from being intercepted and read by unauthorized people.

Offline processing

EMV kernels can process transactions without needing an internet connection. This means transactions can still go through even if there’s no network available.

In today's digital world, card-based transactions are more common but face risks like fraud and data breaches. EMV standards, created by Europay, Mastercard, and Visa, include the EMV kernel, a key software component for processing and verifying transactions. EMV kernels enhance security through chip-based and dynamic authentication, strong encryption, and offline processing. EverExpanse leverages these technologies to ensure secure and reliable card transactions.