– Revolut now offers numberless debit cards by default, with an option to keep the number printed if preferred.
– Numberless cards prevent visual theft of card details in public (e.g., by cameras or copying).
– Numberless cards may cause issues at hotels or airlines that require the physical card number for reservations or payment guarantees.
– Card numbers and security details remain accessible in the app if needed.
– Users can maintain multiple Revolut cards and toggle them on/off individually to manage different use cases.
New Security Update
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.
Communication Gaps in the App
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.
Public Payment Protection
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.
Hotel and Travel Challenges
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.
Potential Booking Issues
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.
Accessing Card Details via App
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.
Final Considerations
Travelers should know that using a card without a number might slow things down at check-in counters or rental desks. But the added security is a tradeoff many will appriciate. Its good that the app stores all the details though this requires your phone to be charged and accessible.
