How to Protect the Strip on a Credit Card
When you first receive your credit card, it works perfectly. However, over time, if you do not properly protect your credit card, the magnetic strip that is on the back of the card will stop working. If the strip stops working, it will no longer be readable when you swipe your card through point-of-sale, or POS, machines and ATMs. If the strip becomes unreadable, the only solution is to obtain a replacement card from your bank, which may result in a replacement fee.
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Instructions
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Avoid placing your credit card near magnetic objects, including the device that is used by many stores to demagnetize the plastic anti-theft tags before removing them from clothing and other products. Do not place the back of your credit card against the back of another card that has a magnetic strip.
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Keep your credit card stored in a dry place when it is not in use, such as a wallet or credit card protection sleeve. Some banks will offer credit card protection sleeves if you have a debit card or credit card from their institution. This will vary by bank. You can buy credit card protection sleeves online. You can also keep a hotel "key sleeve" and use it as a protection sleeve for your credit card.
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Be sure your wallet or credit card protection sleeve is not dirty or "gritty" on the inside, as the dust particles can also damage your magnetic strip.
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Do not place your credit card loosely into your purse or pocket. Other items in your purse, such as keys and coins, can cause scratches to the magnetic strip. If your strip has too many scratches it will eventually become unreadable.
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