How tokenization works
Tokenization replaces a customer’s primary account number (PAN) with a unique replacement code, called a token. Because the token is used instead of the PAN, the customers information is protected throughout the transaction.
Tokenization helps secure digital payments—whether they’re made in-store at point-of-sale or virtually.

Products that offer security and convenience with tokens

Card-on-File (COF) Stored Payment Tokens
Securely offer the convenience of recurring billing and easy online payments. Stored payment tokens exchange stored primary account numbers, or cards-on-file, with merchant-specific payment tokens.
Key features of our stored payment tokens
Streamlines customer experience
Cardholder information updates automatically when their account changes, which reduces customer purchase disruptions.
Enhances other third-party token services
Additional benefits of payment tokens can be implemented without changes to current third-party token services.
Increased security
Payment tokens limit data breach exposure since they cannot be used outside of the specific merchant's environment.

Tap & pay
Enable payments via Apple Pay®, Google PayTM, Samsung Pay®, Garmin PayTM* or issuers can add their cards to digital wallets and more.
* Mobile wallet acceptance varies by market.
Explore stored token and wallet service APIs
Continue to enhance your customer experience. Learn about Discover APIs for stored payment tokens and digital wallet services for different operating systems.

Simplify tokenization services with Discover® Digital Exchange (DDX)
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