What is Card Tokenisation?
Card tokenisation replaces sensitive card details (card number and expiration date) with a secure, unique token. This token is stored on the Payment Gateway server, not on the merchant’s server, and is linked to a single merchant. It cannot be reversed or used outside the gateway system, reducing the risk of fraud.
By storing a card token, merchants can let buyers make future payments without entering full card details each time. For extra security, merchants can require the CVC code and/or 3D Secure (3DS) authentication during each transaction.
Using Tokens: MIT vs. CIT
Merchant Initiated Transactions (MIT)
MITs allow merchants to charge a card on behalf of a customer without their active involvement - ideal for recurring or usage-based billing. Here's how it works:
The customer completes an initial transaction using 3D Secure authentication, which establishes the agreement.
The merchant securely stores the token received during this initial transaction.
Future payments are initiated by the merchant using the stored token, without additional input from the customer.
Note: MITs are regulated under the Payment Services Directive 2 (PSD2) and must be linked to a previous customer-authorised transaction.
Customer Initiated Transactions (CIT)
CITs use stored card credentials, but the customer actively initiates the transaction. One-click payments are a common example.
Tokenisation enables fast, secure, and convenient transactions, improving user experience and supporting digital commerce growth.
Benefits of Tokenisation
Secure: Tokens are non-reversible and merchant-specific.
Convenient: Enables one-click or no-click payments.
Flexible: Works with a range of billing scenarios (recurring, usage-based, cross-border).
User-friendly: Reduces checkout friction and increases conversion.
In-App Payments
With the shift towards seamless digital experiences, in-app payments have become the norm. Leading companies like Uber and Bolt offer invisible payment flows that customers don’t even notice.
We support in-app solutions using card tokenisation.
Automated Payments
Subscription services like Netflix and Spotify have shown the value of automating payments. We enable you to do the same:
Automate recurring billing
Offer international payment options
Simplify cross-border commerce
Streamline periodic invoicing (monthly, weekly, etc.)
By storing card tokens, merchants can trigger automated transactions based on a defined schedule—making the billing process easier for both you and your customers.
Technical Integration
To integrate card tokenisation and automated payment functionality, refer to the API documentation: