Contactless ATMs: Mastercard Pairs with NCR Atleos & ITCARD
Mastercard takes advantage of current digital expectations by introducing a more streamlined process for automated teller machine (ATM) interactions.
How do contactless ATMs work?
Using a similar process to a contactless payment, users go through verification on their mobile devices.
The users holds up their digital wallet, contactless-enabled card or mobile banking app to the ATM.
This can be used on any device which has a digital wallet, including wearables.
Presently, contactless ATMs in Austria, Czechia, Poland and Switzerland require the cardholder using their mobile phone to enter their personal identification number (PIN) alongside authenticating themselves via mobile wallet using biometrics.
Mastercard’s single process trims the additional step traditionally required by contactless ATMs.
In the latest partnership, customers have their identity verified instead through Mastercard’s Consumer Device Cardholder Verification Method (CDCVM).
This occurs on the cardholder’s mobile phone before users even tap the ATM to start the transaction.
Johan Gerber, EVP, Head of Security Solutions at Mastercard notes: “This breakthrough marks a pivotal moment in the evolution of the consumer experience.
“By enabling biometric mobile authentication at ATMs, we are redefining the consumer experience, simplifying it without sacrificing security.”
Initial research from Mastercard shows that on average, users using CDCVM experienced faster transactions by 20% than cardholders using a PIN.
“Together with our partners, we are making everyday financial interactions safe and more intuitive for everyone,” Johan adds.
In addition to creating a more streamlined transaction process, the CDCVM brings a unified front for users by enabling the process to be used in place of a PIN across all devices.
Financial services provider NCR Atleos specialises in ATM hardware and software with the goal of innovation.
Joe Gallagher, Senior Vice President, Products at NCR Atleos, says: “We are thrilled to introduce this groundbreaking innovation that enables consumers to complete contactless, PIN-less transactions securely and effortlessly.
“As a leading provider of self-service technology for almost 50 years we have helped to deliver a significant portion of the over 86 billion ATM transactions per year, conducted globally.
“This marks a significant advancement in enhancing the convenience and speed of everyday transactions for financial institutions and their customers.”
The company’s addition to the partnership helps to drive both Mastercard and NCR Atleos’ goal of digital-first transformation in the fintech industry.
Mastercard’s CDCVM technology is currently being trialled with Polish ATMs serviced by ITCARD.
In a statement, Jarosław Chrzanowski, CEO of ITCARD claims that the company is “redefining ATM withdrawals in Poland – offering a faster, secure, and seamless experience".
“With CDCVM,” he continues, “using an ATM becomes as simple as tapping your phone or card to pay in a shop,”
“The introduction of CDCVM for ATM withdrawals in Poland marks a significant step forward in secure and user-friendly payments and reflects our commitment to enhancing everyday payment experiences.”
The partnership has wider goals for expanding the use of CDCVM in ATMs across Europe in 2026.
This is to meet what Mastercard has called the result of cardholders embracing a 'digital-first lifestyle’.
