This publication shows how to fix a demagnetized credit card easily. Otherwise, the card will be permanently useless.
Credit card issuers and banks use computer chips and contactless payment. However, traditional magnetic strips are still widely available and susceptible to damage. The question now is “can a demagnetized credit card be fixed?
A demagnetized credit card strip will not work in electronic transaction processing machines. The most reliable way to fix the problem is to request a replacement card if you are the original cardholder. However, the card will still work for web transactions that do not require a physical card.
How does magnetic strip work on credit card?
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The magnetic strip contains 3 magnetic tracks – Track 1, Track 2, and Track 3 – used to store the code data of a credit card.
You present the credit card to the card reader by inserting or swiping it in the card reader, which collects the code of the card using a magnetic head for detecting the magnetic field its strip generates.
When you insert or swipe a credit card in a card reader, the reader head creates an electronically recorded voltage read by a processor or reader. The transaction and user are then authenticated.
Magnetic strips are not used in cards only. During the past decade, some hotels issued key cards with the same strip. The strips are made from small iron-based, magnetic components, and are similar to magnetic recording tapes for recording information.
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How a credit card can get demagnetized
Credit cards can last for years but are also affected by certain magnetic factors.
The common explanation for a demagnetized credit card is the exposure to magnetic fields, which magnetizes the tiny particles of iron oxide in the card.
You may be aware that cards are typically shielded with plastic and paper. However, a credit card exposed to materials that contain electromagnetic forces will get demagnetized.
One important reason you need to fix a demagnetized credit card ASAP is that it affects the card data.
Exposure to elements such as water will also damage the card, perhaps, cause it to demagnetize.
The magnetic strip is also vulnerable to large magnets – think of MRI machines. Also, a scratched magnetic strip will cause your credit card to be unreadable.
Signing on a credit card strip or even accidentally knocking it against a tough object can make it demagnetized. Dirt will also cause the card strip to stop working if covered in debris. As such, the card reader will not work.
How to fix a demagnetized credit card
This section explains how you can fix a demagnetize credit card:
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Determine the reason for the demagnetized card
Find out why the card is demagnetized. As mentioned earlier, it could be due to exposure to a magnetic field or even the age of the card.
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You need to know the cause to better clean the strip or affected area for the card to work again. This will also ensure that you never expose the fixed credit card to that damaging situation again.
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Cover the card with plastic bag
Suppose the credit card magnetic strip was exposed to an MRI device or suffered water damage. The conclusion is mostly that the card will not work again.
However, a temporary fix would be to cover the strip with a plastic bag. The plastic cover helps to mask the scratches. You also have to hold the plastic firmly against the magnetic strip to work. This is not a foolproof method but worth trying.
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Use a card scanner
A card scanner will check if the scratches are covered with masking tape or a piece of paper. You can access a scanner at the register when you want to use the credit card for a purchase. Simply slide the card in and out quickly.
The card reader may take longer to work but is a sure way to fix a demagnetized credit card. Note that this may not work with ATMs and other places where you have to insert the credit card in a slot for some time before it is retrieved.
Meanwhile, here are the ways to unblock a blocked ATM card without going to the bank.
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Clean dirt/debris from the card
The next step is to clean any dirt and debris you spot on the credit card. Do not also keep the credit card strip next to any metal objects around, including your keys.
Use a clean fabric to wipe off the dirt. Do not apply any solution to the fabric or directly to the surface of the magnetic strip when cleaning. Just wipe it clean with a dry soft fabric.
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Test the card on the edge of the slot
Insert or swipe the demagnetized credit card in the slot where you would usually swipe your finger across.
However, do not insert the credit card all the way in. Let the credit card hang out of the slot for some time, typically a few seconds, before you remove it. If you feel a movement, there is a chance the demagnetized credit card can be fixed.
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Check for magnetic interference
Insert or swipe the credit card in its normal position and check for any magnetic field interference.
For instance, if your credit card is too close to a mobile phone, this may cause the credit card magnetic problem. The solution here is to move further away to cancel any possible interference before you swipe the card again.
Ensure to remove any metal objects around and try to swipe again. Objects such as your belt, wristwatch, key bunch, etc., can cause annoying interference with the magnetic strip.
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Demagnetize the credit card
To demagnetize your credit card, locate the nearest hardware store or obtain an old refrigerator magnet. You can collect one or multiple magnets. Place the credit card next to the magnets until the magnets no longer move when you hold them up against each other before taking them apart.
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Final thoughts
It is unlikely that you will be able to complete any transaction with a demagnetized magnetic strip. The credit card could be permanently damaged unless you fix it.
If trying to fix the card does not work, get in touch with your bank or the credit card company to obtain a replacement card. A replacement credit card should take a few days to arrive.
