Is it OK to put your credit card next to your phone?

Is It Safe to Store Your Credit Card Near Your Phone?

In the digital age, we rely heavily on our smartphones for various tasks, including making payments. With the convenience of mobile wallets and contactless payment options, it’s common to keep our credit cards in close proximity to our phones. However, concerns have been raised about the potential effects of phone radiation on credit card magnetic stripes.

Magnetic Fields and Credit Cards

Credit and debit cards typically have a magnetic stripe that stores financial information. This stripe can be demagnetized by exposure to strong magnetic fields, rendering the card unusable.

Smartphones and Magnetic Fields

Modern smartphones generate a weak magnetic field, primarily from their speakers. This field is generally not strong enough to demagnetize credit cards. However, in highly unusual circumstances, such as when the phone is placed directly on top of the card for an extended period or in the presence of other strong magnetic fields, demagnetization may occur.

Recommended Precautions

While the risk of demagnetization is minimal, it’s advisable to take the following precautions:

• Avoid placing your credit card directly on top of your phone for prolonged periods.
• If you carry your phone and credit card in the same pocket or wallet, ensure they are separated by a barrier, such as a plastic case or other cards.
• If you suspect your credit card has been demagnetized, contact your credit card issuer promptly. Replacing the card is typically a straightforward process.

Additional Factors to Consider

In addition to magnetic field exposure, other factors can affect the longevity of your credit card’s magnetic stripe:

• Heat: Extreme temperatures, such as those encountered in a hot car or while washing clothes, can damage the magnetic stripe.
• Physical damage: Bending, twisting, or scratching the card can also compromise the stripe.

Conclusion

Storing your credit card next to your phone poses negligible risk to the magnetic stripe, provided you follow the recommended precautions. However, it’s important to be aware of the potential effects of magnetic fields and heat on your credit cards to ensure their continued functionality.