What is Network Tokenization?

Network Tokenization is a tokenization concept introduced by card schemes ('networks') such as Visa, Mastercard and AMEX. It is based on the technical framework provided by EMVCo. A Network Token, also called a DPAN, is an alternative to a conventional plain text card number, also known as Primary Account Number (FPAN) that we are usually familiar with. A DPAN is intended to replace the need for FPANs as a means to eliminate the need to store plain text card numbers on any system in the payment chain.

Without Network Tokens, the usual payment flows are as follows. Merchants generally use a PCI token solution like PCI Proxy to send tokens to PSPs. Then the raw credit card (CC below) is used for the rest of the transaction.

Network Tokens (NT) replace raw credit cards in the last few stages of flows. Depending on its implementation, it can look like the following.

A Network Token is unique for each cardholder as well as for each merchant, which increases the security of sensitive payment details and reduces the risk of fraud. Like a regular FPAN, Network Tokens can be used for completing e-commerce transactions or sharing them with other partners in the payment eco-system.

Network Tokenization in PCI Proxy

We have anticipated this new concept in our infrastructure and customers are able to access Network Tokens in their PCI Proxy integrations and processes, alongside PCI Proxy tokens. You will benefit from industry leading advantages of PCI Proxy without having to change anything on your end. In short, you will have full control and flexibility of your payment stack without interacting with sensitive payment data.

Advantages of Network Tokenization

Lower payment acquiring fees

• Acquirers tend to offer lower acquiring processing fees when using Network Tokens. This is mainly due to increased security and lower risks of declines.

Higher conversion rates

• Credit card credentials are automatically updated at the schemes, which leads to fewer declines
• Authorization rates are significantly higher compared to payments made without Network Tokens

Compliance

• Meet local compliance requirements, such as regulation introduced by the Reserve Bank of India

Increased security, less fraud

• No need to expose sensitive payment card data
• Strict domain control with merchant specific tokens
• A one-time cryptogram for each Network Token

In development

Account lifecycle management

• Receive notifications if the state of a Network Token changes
• Change the state of a Network Token

Future-proofing

• Card art: view an image of the card to show in a customer profile
• Push provisioning
• Delegated authentication
• Improved guest check-out

Get started

The following pages will guide you through the onboarding process to use Network Tokens. For new customers, sign up for an account and contact us!