The cashless gaming market is unique in its requirements for security, privacy, and reliability, and Smart Cards have an inherent security advantage over other off-line technologies.
Magnetic stripe cards can be easily copied or forged, providing illegal funds for participation in games. Smart Cards on the other hand, are encrypted through a computer chip embedded in the card. This chip verifies the integrity of the card before a transaction is completed, making it virtually impossible to forge.
Accountability in Gaming Card Systems
In addition to this increased security, Smart Card gaming card systems improve accountability. A transaction counter is included in the security chip programming, so that transactions can be tracked using SmarTrack Software. This provides a complete audit trail for simplified management, which is not available in a magnetic stripe card format.
Smart Cards can also be programmed with an expiration date. Cards that are stolen or just forgotten can be cancelled, limiting the liability of the gaming location.
Multiple purses are also available to track different accounts within a Smart Card. Funds that are deposited by the player can be kept in purse one and used for participation. Winnings can be tracked in purse two and used for redemption. This is not possible in other off-line cashless gaming technologies.
Smart Cards maintain the anonymity of participants, as names and personal information are not held in a database. The card number and transactions can be reported on-line, but the player is not identified, thus providing added security for both the participant and the gaming location.
Dependable Smart Card Technology
Smart Card readers are more reliable than those used for magnetic stripe cards. The card reader does not have any moving parts that require maintenance or service, reducing the cost of the hardware required in gaming card systems.
Smart Cards therefore provide the highest level of security and provide the management information that is required to run a gaming facility effectively. They maintain the privacy of the individual, and have the reliability to be cost effective.
