Revolut introduces numberless Visa and Mastercard options to boost security

The neobank Revolut has rolled out a new security feature in its app. According to an in-app announcement, users ordering a new debit card—whether Visa or Mastercard—will no longer have the card number printed on the physical card. However, it will still be possible to opt for a card with the number printed on it if desired.

In the app, however, this new feature is not yet clearly communicated. For some cards, it remains unclear whether approving the shipping costs might accidentally trigger an order. We did, however, find the feature immediately on the card that allows for a custom design. With a simple toggle, the number on the card can be opted out of.

When paying with this card in public, users no longer risk someone copying the card number, security codes, and expiration date, or filming them with a security camera, smart glasses, or a smartphone. The numberless card thus catches up with Apple Pay and Google Wallet.

The feature is also helpful in other ways. Some hotels, for instance, have developed a habit of writing down card numbers on slips of paper. Although this is not permitted, it still happens even at major chains like NH or Marriott, as we know from personal experience. Not everyone feels comfortable arguing with hotel staff. Especially when the staff is used to this practice, they feel they are in the right, which is when it becomes problematic.

However, this can also lead to issues if, for example, the card number needs to be entered directly into the reservation system. Some hotels use this specific number to secure a payment guarantee instead of simply blocking an amount. In such cases, Apple Pay or Google Pay is often not accepted as a payment guarantee. The hotel wants to see the physical card. Anyone traveling with a numberless Revolut card should therefore be prepared for discussions.

If in doubt, however, Revolut states that the card number and other security details can still be accessed via the app. There are also occasionally still airlines that request to see the "credit card" used to pay for the flight ticket. One should be aware of such issues, even if they occur rarely. When in doubt, however, a Revolut card with a number can still be used. Revolut allows the use of multiple payment cards, which can be turned on and off individually.