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    Why does the card terminal ask for my PIN in Finland?

    The security checks behind contactless payments.

    Answered at: Checked at:

    Short answer

    There are two usual reasons. A payment over 50 euros always needs the card in the reader and the PIN. Below 50 euros, the bank asks for the PIN now and then as a security check, for example after contactless payments in a row add up to more than 150 euros or after more than five such payments. One PIN payment resets the count.

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    Why

    1. Nordea explains that the PIN is asked for when consecutive contactless payments exceed 150 euros.
    2. The PIN is also asked for after a number of contactless payments in a row.
    3. The single contactless payment limit is 50 euros, according to Taloustaito.

    Details

    The check protects you if the card is lost or stolen. A thief could otherwise make many small payments without knowing the PIN.

    Tip

    If the terminal asks for the PIN, insert the card and type it in. The next small payments can be made by tapping again.

    What may differ

    The exact count and sum are set by the card issuer. A foreign bank may use other numbers.

    Common misconception

    A PIN request means your card has been blocked.

    What actually happens

    It is a routine security check. After a PIN payment, contactless works again.

    People also ask

    • What is the contactless limit in Finland?
    • What should I do if I lose my card in Finland?
    • Can I pay by phone in Finland?

    Sources

    This answer is for reference only. Banks set their own terms, so check the details with the bank before you act.

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