Network Tokenization

Network tokenization replaces sensitive card details (like the Primary Account Number, or PAN) with a unique, non-sensitive digital identifier (a “token”) generated by card networks (Visa, Mastercard) for secure online and recurring payments, protecting data, reducing fraud, and keeping card info updated automatically even if the physical card changes, offering a seamless checkout experience.

How it works

This section outlines the general process of network tokenization:

1. Token Request: A customer saves their card details with a merchant for future use.
2. Network Creation: The merchant sends the card info to the card network (e.g., Visa), which creates a unique network token (a Device PAN or DPAN) and stores it in its vault.
3. Merchant Storage: The merchant stores this token, not the actual card number, for future transactions.
4. Transaction: When the customer pays again, the merchant uses the token. The card network verifies it and processes the payment without exposing the real PAN.

Using Network Tokens with Beam

Beam supports network tokens as a payment method for

• Charges
• Card Authorizations

Provisioning network tokens through Beam is not supported yet. Merchants must obtain network tokens directly from card networks or through their payment gateway or processor that supports network tokenization.