Knowing Card Number Format Variations with Bin Checker

Bin checker are useful instruments for confirming payment card data and avoiding fraudulent transactions. They use the Bank Identification Number (BIN), which is the first six digits of a card number, to collect crucial data about the card's issuing bank, brand, and other specifics. 

The problem emerges, though, when cards have unique number structures or formats that stray from the norm. In this post, we'll look at how BIN checkers handle different card number formats and how well they can spot these variances.

Understanding Card Number Formats

Payment card numbers typically follow a specific format based on the card brand and type. For example, Visa cards typically have 16 digits.

However, there can be variations within these formats due to different card types, co-branded cards, or specific card programs. 

BIN checkers need to account for these variations to accurately validate card numbers.

BIN checkers rely on comprehensive BIN databases that store information about different card number formats. 

These databases are regularly updated to include new card ranges and formats. BIN checkers use these databases to determine the appropriate format for the given BIN and validate the card number accordingly. 

The flexibility of the BIN database allows bin checker to handle different card number structures and adapt to evolving industry standards.

Issuer Identification Number (IIN) Range Validation

BIN checkers identify the issuer of a card through the Issuer Identification Number (IIN), which is the first several digits of the BIN. 

Each card issuer has its own IIN range, and BIN checkers reference this information to determine the card's brand and issuing institution. 

In cases where different card types or formats are used by a single issuer, the BIN checker cross-references the IIN range to identify the specific card type or format associated with that issuer.

Co-branded cards, which carry the branding of both the card network and a partner organization, often have unique card number formats Mastercard and Discover cards have 16 digits, and American Express cards have 15 digits

BIN checkers need to be capable of recognizing these co-branded cards and validating their card numbers correctly. By referencing the BIN database, BIN checkers identify the co-branded card's format, associated partners, and relevant details, ensuring accurate validation.

BIN Range Patterns

BIN checkers analyze patterns within BIN ranges to identify different card number formats. They can detect variations such as the number of digits, grouping patterns, or specific prefixes or suffixes associated with particular card formats. 

By examining these patterns, BIN checkers can distinguish between different card number structures and validate them accordingly.

To keep up with evolving card number formats and structures, BIN checkers regularly update their BIN databases. 

These updates include new BIN ranges, modified formats, or additional information about specific card types. By staying up-to-date with the latest card number variations, BIN checkers ensure accurate validation and detection of different card formats.

Collaboration with Card Networks and Issuers

BIN checkers often collaborate with card networks and issuers to gather information about new card formats and variations. 

Card networks and issuers communicate changes in card number structures to BIN checker providers, enabling them to update their databases accordingly. 

This collaboration ensures that BIN checkers have access to the most comprehensive and accurate information to handle different card number formats.

BIN checker solutions often offer customization and configuration options to cater to specific business needs. 

This includes the ability to define card number formats associated with different BINs. Businesses can configure their BIN checkers to recognize and validate specific card number structures that are unique to their industry or card programs.

Conclusion

BIN checkers play a crucial role in the validation and verification of payment card information. While the standard card number formats are well-established, variations in card number structures can present challenges. 

However, with the flexibility of BIN databases, dynamic updates, collaboration with card networks and issuers, and the ability to recognize patterns, BIN checkers can effectively handle different card number formats and validate them accurately. T

his capability enhances the security and reliability of payment transactions, reducing the risk of fraudulent activity and ensuring a smooth payment experience for both businesses and consumers.

Exact Meaning Of Bin

 A bank identification number or BIN is a 6-digit number that identifies the card issuer within the payment system during authorisation and processing.

In the payment processing cycle, the BIN is used to determine which bank the authorisation request should be directed to, the type of card used, the geographic location of the bank, and other useful information.

Each digit of the bank identification number carries the information necessary to authorise and process card transactions.

Aside from banks, other financial institutions are also empowered to issue cards. That’s why BIN is also known as an issuer identification number (IIN) there are some easy ways to search bin with the help of bin search.

How bank identification number works

Every time a customer swipes their card or enters the card details to pay, the issuer receives an authorisation request to confirm that the bank account is valid and has enough funds to withdraw. 

The BIN system was developed by the International Organisation for Standardisation (ISO).

Collaboration with the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) as a way to identify institutions that issue credit, debit and other types of bank cards.

Since the bank identification number is used to cross-check information between card networks, banks, and other financial institutions, the average user rarely interacts with the BIN. 

Most often, it’s simply entered during the checkout along with the full card number to complete an online transaction.

Why is a bank identification number important?

Bank identification number helps merchants and card networks quickly check all important information needed to process the payment, in particular:

• Card network
• The bank or financial institution that issued the card
• Card type (credit, debit, prepaid card, gift card)
• Bank card category (Classic, Gold, Maestro, Standard, Platinum)
• Card issue country and the bank’s location

Verifying the above points helps the payment system protect against card fraud and process transactions smoothly. In addition to identification purposes, a bank identification number is often used by merchants to analyse processed payments in terms of geolocation and payment method used. 

For example, if you know that a large number of payments are made using the cards of a particular bank, then it makes sense to cooperate with it to ensure cost-efficient payment processing.

Here’s what industries the MIIs represent:

0: ISO/TC 68 Assignment

1: Airlines

2: Airlines and other industry assignments

3: Travel and Entertainment + American Express cards

4: Banking (Visa)

5: Banking (MasterCard)

6: Merchandising and Financial + Discover cards

7: Petrol industry

8: Health Care and Communications

9: National Standards Bodies

Other digits

The rest digits of the bank identification number are generated by the payment system as a unique set of numbers that designate an individual card account. 

These digits cannot match with other card numbers issued by the same institution. It is possible for each card issuer to generate a trillion of unique numbers for their clients.

For bank cards, the fifth and sixth digits are assigned in accordance with the bank card category. For example, Classic, Gold, Maestro, Platinum, etc.