What is PIN verification?

Point of Sale (POS) Glossary

The pin verification process involves a shopper entering their secret personal identification number to complete a card-based transaction. The personal identification number (PIN) is a secret code that, when required, must be entered to complete the transaction.

A merchant might ask a patron to input their personal identification number (PIN) into an integrated all-in-one credit card terminal. A separate pin pad is also sometimes used for PIN entry at a point of sale register.

PINs are usually used for debit transactions and cash back. Many merchants configure POS terminals not to require PINs for credit card sales. This is similar to how they may also not require a signature for some or all transactions. PINs make purchases more secure by adding a layer of security that reduces fraud.