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Discover D-PAS and JCB L2/L3 Certification Essentials for POS and SoftPOS As digital payments evolve globally, terminal vendors and SoftPOS solution providers must ensure compatibility with major card schemes like Discover and JCB. Compliance with EMV standards particularly Level 2 (kernel) and Level 3 (end-to-end transaction flow) is essential to enable secure, certified, and interoperable acceptance of these payment networks. Without this certification, devices cannot be launched or integrated into acquiring networks. Understanding the Role of D-PAS and JCB in EMV Transactions D-PAS (Discover Payment Application Specification) is Discover Global Network’s EMV-based specification designed to ensure secure, offline and online contact/contactless card transactions. It supports not only Discover® and Diners Club International® cards but also cards issued under partner networks worldwide. JCB (Japan Credit Bureau) is a major international card brand originating in Japan. For global acceptance, JCB mandates both EMV Level 2 and Level 3 certifications to ensure its cards function securely and consistently across POS and SoftPOS platforms. The Need for L2 and L3 Certification Level 2 certification focuses on validating the EMV kernel, which is responsible for handling smart card communication, cryptographic operations, and transaction decision-making logic. This includes functions like card authentication, CVM (Cardholder Verification Method) processing, terminal risk management, and accurate generation of ARQC/ARPC. Level 3 certification verifies the entire payment flow—from the EMV kernel to the terminal application and host/acquirer communication. It checks the structure and accuracy of ISO 8583 messages, receipt content, CVM results, reversals, refunds, fallback mechanisms, and how the terminal behaves under real-world transaction scenarios. D-PAS EMV Certification Requirements L2 (Kernel Level) Kernel must support both contact and contactless transaction flows per D-PAS 2.x or 3.x specifications. Compliance with card CVM requirements, cryptographic processing (ARQC, ARPC), terminal risk management. Kernel must respond accurately to EMV commands and manage fallbacks or card exceptions reliably. L3 (Application Level) Validates transaction lifecycle, including ISO 8583 message formatting, acquirer host response handling, and transaction integrity. Ensures online/offline decisions are aligned with acquirer logic and card preferences. Confirms merchant receipt content, CVM results, and reversal handling are in line with Discover’s host protocol. JCB Certification Requirements L2 (Kernel Level) Certification applies to both contact EMV (Book B) and contactless JCB kernels; must meet card interaction, CVM, and risk checks. Kernel must properly select the application, process offline and online authentications, and provide accurate TVR/TSI outcomes. Kernel testing must ensure mobile, card, and wearable compatibility for JCB payment acceptance. L3 (Application Level) Host message format and terminal application logic must match JCB’s online authorization and settlement expectations. Receipt formats, multi-currency support, and fallback scenarios must be validated. L3 tests confirm consistency across error paths, transaction cancellations, and acquirer approval logic. Certification Complexity in POS and SoftPOS Environments For POS Terminals Requires integration with specific hardware (ICC reader, PIN pad, contactless antenna); must handle multiple card profiles during certification. Debugging across multiple test cards and fallback handling requires detailed transaction tracing. Updating or re-certifying firmware involves both L2 and L3 retesting depending on change scope. For SoftPOS Solutions Android-based Tap-to-Phone platforms must integrate certified contactless kernels with secure key handling and NFC stack. Requires adherence to PCI MPoC guidelines alongside EMV certifications. Certification must validate that the software-only architecture still meets Discover/JCB’s performance, timing, and security benchmarks. EazyPayTech’s End-to-End Certification Expertise End-to-End EMV Kernel Development & Integration: Custom or ready-made EMV kernels for POS and SoftPOS (Android) with full compliance to Discover/JCB specs. Modular kernels supporting AID selection, risk checks, and dynamic CVM management. Pre-Certification Testing & Debugging Simulated card environments to test terminal readiness before formal lab testing. Identify and fix EMV transaction errors, host message discrepancies, and kernel inconsistencies. L3 Host Integration & Messaging Validation Validate ISO 8583 structures, response parsing, and host behavior for Discover & JCB acquiring flows. Offer tools to trace, simulate, and validate authorization and settlement messages. Certification Project Management Handle communication with labs like FIME, UL, or Elitt; manage test plans, documentation, and re-submission cycles. Reduce go-to-market time by ensuring all technical and compliance documents are in place. Benefits of D-PAS & JCB L2/L3 Compliance Global Card Acceptance: Unlocks Discover, Diners Club, and JCB transactions for international merchants and acquirers. Higher Market Access: Mandatory for launching solutions in APAC, North America, and Europe. Enhanced Transaction Security: EMV kernel + host validation prevents fraud and ensures cryptographic transaction safety. Regulatory Readiness: Essential for PCI DSS, MPoC, and country-specific terminal deployment approvals. Trusted Certification Partner: Working with EazyPayTech guarantees expert technical support and certification success. Accelerate Your Certification Journey with EazyPayTech Whether you are developing traditional POS terminals or SoftPOS applications, EazyPayTech offers specialized EMV kernel development, Level 2/3 certification support, and SoftPOS integration services tailored for Discover and JCB requirements. From technical readiness assessments to full lifecycle certification assistance, our team ensures you pass the required compliance milestones quickly and efficiently. Contact us today to begin your D-PAS and JCB certification journey with confidence.

Payment Security As digital commerce accelerates globally, businesses face increasing pressure to ensure secure transactions and customer trust. With data breaches, payment fraud, and regulatory scrutiny on the rise, implementing a secure payment system (SPS) is no longer optional, it’s essential. This comprehensive blog explores why secure payment systems are vital, what they entail, and how businesses can leverage technologies like encryption, tokenization, EMV, MFA, and PCI DSS compliance to protect their operations, boost customer trust, and meet global standards. What is Payment Security? A payment security is an infrastructure hardware, software, protocols, and processes designed to safely transmit, process, and store financial transaction data. It protects sensitive information, prevents fraud, and ensures compliance with security standards like PCI DSS and EMV. These systems are built with layered security technologies that secure digital payments at every stage whether it’s online, in-store, or via mobile apps. With digital transactions surpassing cash in many parts of the world, robust security has become the backbone of modern commerce. In the ever-evolving landscape of digital commerce, ensuring payment security is no longer an option, it’s a foundational necessity. As digital payment volumes skyrocket and consumer trust becomes a crucial business differentiator, robust payment security systems are at the heart of every transaction. For financial institutions, merchants, fintech providers, and payment service enablers, understanding and implementing secure payment mechanisms is essential for operational integrity, customer retention, and regulatory compliance. This comprehensive guide explores the core pillars of secure payment systems, diving deep into advanced encryption, tokenization, EMV technologies, fraud detection systems, PCI DSS compliance, digital wallets, multi-factor authentication, and the pivotal role of payment gateways. Each section outlines how these technologies work, their real-world application, and the business value they bring. 1. Encryption: The Bedrock of Payment Security Encryption is the mathematical process of transforming readable payment data (plaintext) into a scrambled, unreadable format (ciphertext) using cryptographic keys. This transformation ensures that even if the data is intercepted during transmission or compromised while stored, it remains unintelligible to unauthorized parties without the proper decryption mechanism. Encryption is a frontline defense in protecting cardholder data and transaction details from cybercriminals, hackers, and other malicious entities. It forms the foundation of secure electronic payment systems, enabling confidentiality, data integrity, and trust. Key Encryption Types Used in Payments Symmetric Encryption: This method uses the same secret key for both encryption and decryption. It is computationally efficient and faster than asymmetric encryption but requires a highly secure key exchange mechanism between sender and receiver to prevent interception. Common symmetric encryption algorithms include AES (Advanced Encryption Standard) and Triple DES. Asymmetric Encryption: Asymmetric encryption uses a public-private key pair. The public key encrypts the data, while the private key known only to the intended recipient decrypts it. This model provides stronger security, especially in open networks, making it ideal for securing payment data in e-commerce and online banking environments. RSA is one of the most widely used asymmetric algorithms. Real-World Encryption Workflow in Payments A user initiates a transaction by entering credit/debit card details on a website or payment application. Before the data is transmitted to the acquiring bank or payment processor, the browser or app encrypts the information using the server’s public key (asymmetric encryption). The encrypted data is transmitted securely over HTTPS. On the server end, the processor decrypts the data using its private key to validate and process the transaction. Business Benefits of Strong Encryption Practices End-to-End Data Security: Ensures protection of cardholder data both in transit and at rest. Compliance Enablement: Integral to complying with PCI DSS requirements. Customer Trust: Builds confidence among users who are increasingly concerned about online privacy. Breach Impact Reduction: Even if a breach occurs, encrypted data remains useless to attackers without decryption keys. 2. Payment Gateways: The Digital Tollbooth of Transactions A payment gateway is a digital bridge that securely connects a merchant’s platform to acquiring banks and payment networks to facilitate the authorization, processing, and settlement of online transactions. It plays a similar role to a physical POS (Point of Sale) terminal, verifying payment credentials and transaction intent before completing the transfer of funds. Payment gateways are not just conduits—they actively contribute to the security, speed, and reliability of digital payments by incorporating encryption, authentication, fraud screening, and protocol compliance. Core Security Functions of Payment Gateways Data Encryption: Gateways encrypt sensitive cardholder information using SSL/TLS to prevent data theft. Bank Verification: Gateways verify the customer’s account, funds availability, and card validity. Real-Time Approvals or Denials: Authorizations are executed within seconds, improving customer experience. Tokenization Support: Many gateways tokenize data before passing it to downstream processors for added security. Use Case in a Typical Transaction Imagine a customer making a purchase on an e-commerce website: They enter their card details during checkout. The payment gateway encrypts the data and securely sends it to the acquiring bank. The bank routes the request through the card network to the issuing bank. The issuing bank validates the request, checking for sufficient funds, and responds with an approval or decline. The payment gateway then conveys this result back to the merchant’s platform, completing the transaction. Business Value of Modern Payment Gateways Seamless Integration: Easily connects to credit/debit cards, UPI, net banking, digital wallets, and BNPL (Buy Now, Pay Later) methods. Real-Time Reporting: Offers instant transaction insights and analytics. Advanced Fraud Controls: Supports geolocation filters, velocity checks, and device fingerprinting. Enhanced Customer Experience: Reduces cart abandonment with fast, intuitive checkout flows. 3. Tokenization: Data Substitution for Ultimate Security Tokenization replaces sensitive payment information—like a 16-digit card number (PAN)—with a randomized, non-sensitive equivalent called a token. This token has no intrinsic value and is meaningless to hackers if intercepted, as it cannot be reverse-engineered without access to the token vault. Tokenization is widely used in mobile wallets, card-on-file systems, recurring billing, and in-store payments, providing a secure mechanism for storing and transmitting payment credentials. Key Components of a Tokenization System Token Generator: A secure algorithm or service that creates unique tokens per transaction or customer. Token

Understand the critical differences between PCI compliance and EMV technology. EazyPay Tech helps businesses achieve secure, certified payment systems with EMV & PCI DSS integration.

Understanding PCI Security Payment Card Industry (PCI) security refers to the set of standards and regulations established by the PCI Security Standards Council (PCI SSC) to ensure the secure handling, processing, and transmission of credit card data. These standards are designed to protect sensitive cardholder information from fraud, data breaches, and cyber threats. The PCI SSC was founded in 2006 by major credit card companies, including Visa, MasterCard, American Express, Discover, and JCB International, to create a unified framework for payment security. Compliance with PCI security standards is mandatory for any business that processes, stores, or transmits payment card data. This guide explores the three primary PCI security standards, their requirements, enforcement mechanisms, and the consequences of non-compliance. PCI Security Standards The PCI SSC has established three key security standards to address different aspects of payment security: PCI Data Security Standard (PCI DSS) – Applies to merchants and service providers handling cardholder data. PCI PIN Transaction Security (PCI PTS) – Pertains to manufacturers of PIN-entry devices. Payment Application Data Security Standard (PA-DSS) – Governs software developers creating payment applications. Each standard serves a distinct purpose in securing the payment ecosystem. 1. PCI DSS: Data Security Standard The PCI Data Security Standard (PCI DSS) is the cornerstone of the PCI security ecosystem. It is applicable to any organization—merchants, processors, acquirers, issuers, or service providers—that processes, stores, or transmits cardholder data. Whether you operate a small e-commerce site or a multinational acquiring bank, if you deal with payment card transactions, PCI DSS compliance is mandatory. At its core, PCI DSS is designed to protect sensitive cardholder data from unauthorized access and breaches. The standard includes a broad set of 12 fundamental security requirements, categorized under six overarching control objectives. These range from implementing strong access control measures and maintaining secure network architecture to continuous monitoring and regular testing of infrastructure. Organizations must encrypt data during transmission across open networks, restrict physical and logical access to cardholder data, and ensure that only authorized personnel can access sensitive systems. Robust antivirus and anti-malware strategies must be implemented, and all system components should be patched regularly to mitigate vulnerabilities. Network segmentation is encouraged to isolate cardholder data environments, reducing the scope of compliance audits. PCI DSS compliance is not one-size-fits-all. Merchants and service providers are categorized into compliance levels based on their annual transaction volume. For example, Level 1 merchants process over six million transactions annually and require a full onsite audit by a Qualified Security Assessor (QSA), while Level 4 merchants—processing fewer than 20,000 transactions—may only be required to complete a Self-Assessment Questionnaire (SAQ) and undergo periodic vulnerability scans. Maintaining PCI DSS compliance is a continuous process. It involves risk assessments, regular penetration testing, system log reviews, and documentation of information security policies. Non-compliance can result in penalties, increased scrutiny from acquirers, and reputational damage following data breaches. Core Objectives and Requirements Organized under six broad control objectives, PCI DSS defines 12 key requirements: Build and Maintain a Secure Network Use robust firewalls and routing configurations. Avoid using vendor-supplied default passwords. Protect Cardholder Data Encrypt stored data with approved algorithms. Use SSL/TLS for data in transit across public networks. Maintain a Vulnerability Management Program Use updated antivirus tools. Develop and maintain secure systems and applications. Implement Strong Access Control Measures Limit access to data by need-to-know basis. Assign unique IDs for each user. Physically restrict access to cardholder environments. Monitor and Test Networks Regularly Track and monitor all access to network resources and cardholder data. Conduct frequent vulnerability assessments and penetration tests. Maintain an Information Security Policy Establish security policies for personnel, contractors, and third parties. Compliance Validation Levels Level 1: >6 million transactions/year – Requires QSA audit. Level 2–4: Fewer transactions – Requires SAQ and quarterly scans. 2. PCI PTS: PIN Transaction Security The PCI PIN Transaction Security (PTS) standard is specifically designed for manufacturers and integrators of payment hardware. This includes Point of Sale (POS) terminals, Automated Teller Machines (ATMs), PIN entry devices, card readers, and secure cryptographic modules. PCI PTS aims to ensure that PIN-based transactions are conducted in a secure and tamper-resistant environment. At the device level, PCI PTS addresses both the logical and physical security requirements necessary to safeguard sensitive cardholder information, especially the personal identification number (PIN). These requirements mandate the use of tamper-resistant enclosures, secure key injection, encrypted PIN block generation, and mechanisms to detect and respond to unauthorized access or device compromise. For instance, if a malicious actor attempts to open or tamper with a certified POS terminal, the device must be capable of zeroizing all cryptographic keys, rendering the device inoperable and data irrecoverable. Additionally, the firmware used within the terminal must be digitally signed, ensuring that only authentic and untampered software can be installed or executed. Compliance with PCI PTS requires submission of the hardware for rigorous testing at a PCI-recognized laboratory. These labs assess the design, firmware, encryption capabilities, physical security features, and device life-cycle management processes. Upon successful evaluation, compliant devices are listed on the PCI SSC website, enabling acquirers and solution providers to verify whether a terminal meets industry security benchmarks. As payment technologies evolve—incorporating biometric authentication, NFC, and Tap-to-Phone capabilities—the PCI PTS standard is also adapting. Manufacturers must stay up to date with the latest modular requirements, including SPoC (Software-based PIN entry on COTS devices) and CPoC (Contactless Payments on COTS). Devices That Must Comply POS terminals ATMs EPP modules Mobile readers Critical Security Requirements Tamper-Resistant Design: Secure enclosures, epoxy protection, and detection circuitry. PIN Encryption: Secure key injection and real-time encryption of PINs. Firmware Security: Protection against unauthorized code changes. Physical Security: Self-destruct mechanisms for memory wipe on tamper detection. Certification Steps Design evaluation Hardware testing by PCI-approved labs Compliance reporting and approval 3. PA-DSS: Payment Application Data Security Standard The Payment Application Data Security Standard (PA-DSS) addresses the software layer of payment processing. Specifically, it applies to software vendors and developers who build and distribute third-party payment applications that are intended to be installed on merchant systems

Visa EMV Level 2 Testing & Certification In the competitive and security-sensitive world of digital payments, obtaining the necessary certifications is more than just a compliance requirement it’s a gateway to market acceptance and long-term scalability. Among the most crucial certifications for payment terminal software is the Visa-specific EMV Level 2 (L2) certification. This certification is a vital step for manufacturers, solution providers, and developers aiming to ensure that their payment devices – whether POS terminals, ATMs, SoftPOS, or embedded systems – function correctly and securely in Visa’s payment ecosystem. EMVCo provides the foundational specifications and certifications for chip-based card transactions. However, each card scheme, including Visa, enforces its own brand-specific logic, transaction processing rules, security policies, and risk management protocols. Visa’s EMV certification ensures that a payment terminal’s software not only aligns with general EMV standards but also correctly implements and supports Visa’s proprietary features. At EazyPay Tech, we specialize in streamlining the entire Visa-specific EMV L2 certification process. We empower our clients including POS terminal manufacturers, SoftPOS developers, ATM providers, and wearable payment solution companies with a comprehensive certification strategy that addresses every technical, procedural, and operational requirement set by Visa. Why VISA Specific EMV Certification is Critical Visa-specific EMV Level 2 certification is not just an additional layer of compliance but a critical milestone in the commercialization of any payment acceptance device. Here’s why it matters: Visa mandates unique transaction logic, cardholder verification methods, and proprietary application flows that differ significantly from other payment schemes. Your EMV kernel must interpret and respond to these requirements accurately. Without Visa’s L2 approval, a terminal cannot proceed to Visa Level 3 testing or be deployed in Visa-accepting merchant environments. Certification ensures that the terminal can handle Visa cards—both contact and contactless—without functional failures, security lapses, or degraded user experiences. Visa-specific certification ensures your solution adheres to Visa’s global security mandates, which are constantly evolving to prevent fraud and maintain user trust. VISA Contact and Contactless Certification Process The Visa certification process for both contact and contactless EMV Level 2 (L2) kernels is a stringent, multi-layered validation program that ensures the payment software embedded in POS terminals, SoftPOS devices, ATMs, or embedded payment systems is fully compliant with Visa’s global transaction, security, and cardholder experience requirements. While EMVCo certification validates that a terminal’s EMV L2 kernel adheres to global standards, Visa’s certification process goes further by testing how the kernel specifically interacts with Visa-branded cards and protocols. At EazyPay Tech, we help you navigate both contact (VSDC) and contactless (qVSDC) Visa certification paths, ensuring you’re fully equipped to launch products that are Visa-compliant across all form factors. 1. Overview of VISA Contact Certification (VSDC) The Visa Smart Debit/Credit (VSDC) protocol governs contact-based EMV transactions. It defines how a terminal should process chip card payments over a physical chip reader. Key stages in the Visa Contact L2 Certification process include: Initial Kernel Audit: A technical review of the EMVCo-approved kernel to assess its support for Visa-specific tags, Application Identifiers (AIDs), terminal parameters, and risk management logic. Test Plan Preparation: Selection of appropriate test scripts from the Visa Contact Chip Vendor Test Plan relevant to the terminal type and card configurations. Laboratory Testing: Execution of VSDC test scripts at a Visa-recognized test laboratory, including test cases for AID selection, TVR generation, TAC execution, and transaction flows (online, offline, fallback). Debug and Fix Cycles: Errors or test failures are logged, reviewed by EazyPayTech, and corrected in the kernel. We iterate until a full pass is achieved. Result Documentation: All test logs, screenshots, and technical artifacts are compiled as per Visa’s documentation standards. Submission and Review: Submission to Visa for their internal evaluation and feedback cycle. The Visa engineering team may request clarifications, additional data, or changes. Certification Issuance: Visa issues the EMV Level 2 Contact Approval Letter, authorizing the kernel for deployment on Visa networks.   2. Overview of VISA Contactless Certification (qVSDC) The contactless version of Visa’s protocol, qVSDC (Quick Visa Smart Debit/Credit), is designed for speed and efficiency, especially in high-volume retail and transit environments. It supports tap-and-go payments through NFC, requiring minimal interaction between cardholder and device. The qVSDC certification process is more complex than VSDC due to additional radio-frequency, cryptographic, and performance requirements. Key stages of Visa Contactless Certification include: Antenna-Level Testing Pre-check: For NFC-capable devices like SoftPOS or contactless terminals, proper antenna tuning is critical. EazyPayTech helps perform RF performance checks before functional testing begins. Kernel Feature Review: Evaluation of contactless-specific elements such as: Tap thresholds and user prompts Transaction timing performance qVSDC-specific CVM support (e.g., No CVM, Online PIN) Execution of qVSDC Test Plan: Coordinated testing using Visa’s Contactless Chip Vendor Test Plan, including offline data authentication, transaction decisioning, and error handling. Performance and Timing Validation: Ensuring that total tap-to-response times meet Visa’s minimum speed benchmarks, which is crucial for transit and retail use cases. Error Handling Scenarios: Testing of contactless-specific fallback situations, such as when a transaction exceeds a CVM limit or requires online authentication. Integration with Visa Contactless Kernel Test Cards: Ensuring full interoperability with Visa-branded contactless cards and mobile wallets (e.g., Apple Pay, Google Pay). Visa Review and Approval: Final documentation and test results are submitted for Visa’s internal evaluation. Upon acceptance, Visa issues the EMV Level 2 Contactless Approval Letter.   3. Integrated Contact + Contactless Certification Strategy EazyPayTech offers an integrated dual-mode certification strategy, where both contact and contactless versions of the kernel are evaluated in parallel to reduce time-to-market and streamline resource utilization. Our dual-mode certification strategy involves: Shared Kernel Base Optimization: Building a modular architecture that supports both VSDC and qVSDC without duplicating logic unnecessarily. Unified Test Plan Management: Coordinating with labs to merge testing cycles where feasible, allowing simultaneous execution of applicable contact and contactless tests. Consolidated Documentation and Submission: Creating a unified submission package for Visa that covers both interfaces to simplify the approval process. Synchronized Visa Reviews: Managing Visa’s review timelines so that contact and contactless approvals are granted in tandem.   Key Areas in VISA EMV