UK Switch

[amn@ubik.demon.co.uk]

amolnatu@emirates.net.ae wrote:
> 
> Hi
> 
> I am interested in finding out more about how UK Switch operates:

This straying a bit off-topic for ukcrypto, but a brief reply here is probably not too out of line...

> 1. Is this run by a government body or a private party/consortium ?

Switch cards are UK debit cards, the system was started around 1988 - when VISA & Mastercard were strictly credit card only systems..  A private company, Switch Card Services Ltd, (I presume owned by a group of banks), sets the standards & such.

http://www.switch.co.uk/

"21 million card holders, 31 member banks and bulding societies"


> 2. Does this support the ATM network or only the POS network ?

The cards can be used for both.

> 3. What is the authentication scheme used for each of the following
> environments:
> 	a. ATM, 

Four digit PIN.
Outside the UK Switch cards can be used with any ATM that is part of the Cirrus network.

>POS

In the UK the card is swiped and the customer's signature taken.

Beyond the UK POS systems that are part of the Maestro network can process the cards.  After swiping the card either a signature is taken or the customer must enter the PIN on a keypad.

> 	b. Internet

I've only encountered companies based in the UK offering telephone or internet with Switch cards.  I presume this because only UK banks are in a position to to be acquirers for such sales.

Not encountered the use of any authentication, though the card has a 3 digit check number on the back and this may be required at some point.

> 4. Is the authentication scheme (for internet) mandated by the switch
> operator or varies from acquirer/issuer ?

The acquiring bank should specify what they require, no doubt in line with any changes in policy by Switch.

> 5. How do costs for processing non-onus Switch cards compare with costs for
> non-onus Visa Electron/Maestro debit cards for the acquirer ?

Outside my expertise.


Tony Naggs