Plastic Card Identification Understanding Its Benefits Limitations

Introduction

Plastic card technology has made life easier, from its inception and use in credit cards and more recently as identification. With its introduction in the form of identity cards, people have started to be exposed to the multiple advantages that this technology provides. Plastic card identification works by collecting personal identification data and storing it in one small card. This card includes all kinds of identification information like medical information, driver's license data, social security numbers, etc. But it also comes with some limitations that must be understood.

Benefits of Plastic Card Identification

One of the biggest advantages of plastic card identification is its convenience. It provides easy identification and allows for easy verification for legal purposes. By storing all the necessary information in one place, it eliminates the need to carry multiple forms of identification. It also makes it easier to update information, as all the data is stored in one place.

Another advantage of plastic card identification is its security. This type of identification is encrypted, which makes it difficult for malicious actors to access the data stored on it without authorization. Additionally, plastic cards are much harder to duplicate than traditional paper documents, which makes them a great tool for preventing fraud.

Pros and Cons of Plastic Card Identification

Pros:

• Convenient All personal and identification data is stored in one place.
• Secure The data is encrypted which makes it difficult to access without authorization.
• Rugged Plastic cards are tougher to replicate than paper forms of identification.
• Efficient Plastic cards allow for fast and easy access to information.

Cons:

• Costly Plastic cards are more expensive to manufacture than paper forms.
• Susceptible to tampering If cards are lost or stolen, they can be tampered with.
• Susceptible to hacking Since plastic cards store a lot of personal information, this data can be hacked if it is not properly secured.

Case Studies

Following are some case studies where the use of plastic card identification had a positive outcome.

Case Study 1: Bank of America

Bank of America (BofA) implemented the use of plastic cards to verify customers' identities in their branches. This allowed for quick and efficient customer service, along with increased security. Additionally, the cards can also be used as debit cards so customers don't have to carry around multiple cards.

Case Study 2: California State University

California State University uses plastic cards to store student information and provide access to their campus facilities. This allows for better security and easy access to students' data. Additionally, they can also use the cards as form of payment if needed.

Case Study 3: Retailers

Retailers have started using plastic cards to store customer information, which allows for a more efficient customer experience. This information can be used for promotions or loyalty programs, or for payment. Additionally, by using plastic cards, retailers can better protect their customer data.

FAQs

What are the advantages of plastic card identification?

The advantages of plastic card identification include convenience, security, durability, and efficiency. All of these factors make them a great tool for verifying people's identities and providing access to services.

Can plastic cards be used for payment?

Yes, plastic cards can be used for payment. They can be used in a variety of ways, including credit cards, debit cards, and prepaid cards.

Are plastic cards durable?

Yes, plastic cards are more durable than traditional paper documents. They are also more difficult to replicate than paper documents, which makes them a great tool for preventing fraud.

Mistakes People Make

When using plastic cards there are a few mistakes people make that can lead to security risks. Below are some common ones:

• Not keeping the card secure This could lead to theft or fraudulent use.
• Failing to register the card Failing to register a card can lead to loss of personal information and money.
• Not updating the information on the card Outdated information can lead to fraud and identity theft.
• Using the wrong kind of card Different types of cards have different safety features and should be used accordingly.

Best Practices for Plastic Card Identification

To ensure that plastic card identification is used properly, here are some best practices to follow:

• Keep your card secure Store your card in a safe place and ensure that no one other than you has access to it.
• Register your card Make sure to register your card with the issuer to help protect your personal information.
• Keep your information up to date Make sure to keep your information updated to help avoid fraud and identity theft.
• Choose the right type of card Make sure to choose the right type of card to suit your needs.

Conclusion

Plastic card identification can be a great tool for verifying people's identities and providing access to services. It comes with a lot of advantages, such as convenience, security, and efficiency. However, it also comes with some limitations, such as cost and susceptibility to tampering and hacking. To ensure that plastic card identification is used properly, it is important to follow best practices such as keeping the card secure, registering it, and updating the information on it.