It is dangerous to cut new generation bank cards with scissors

Cutting the new generation bank cards, which have become more common in recent years, with scissors and throwing them away when their expiration date expires can pose a risk to both health and the environment. Scientific data and expert evaluations indicate that cards, especially those with a dynamic security code (CVV), should not be mechanically destroyed.

CUTTING THE CARD MAY CREATE A CHEMICAL RISK

According to the structural analyzes in the 2020 doctoral thesis of French engineer Claire Deilhes, the new generation cards with dynamic security code contain lithium micro batteries thinner than 0.5 millimeters and active electrochemical cells that feed the e-paper screen.

Cutting such lithium-ion cells with scissors or similar tools can cause a chemical short circuit and an overheating reaction called thermal runaway.

One of the most important dangers that may arise during slaughter is the release of hydrogen fluoride gas. When this gas comes into contact with moisture in the eyes, skin or respiratory tract, it can turn into fluorohydric acid, an extremely toxic and corrosive substance. This situation can lead to serious health problems.

CUT CARDS MAKE RECYCLING DIFFICULT

Mechanical disintegration of cards poses a problem not only in terms of health but also in terms of recycling. Bank cards containing e-paper screens, NFC antennas and lithium batteries are considered within the scope of Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (EEEA).

The cards also contain precious metals such as gold, palladium, silver and copper. Shredding the cards into small pieces can cause these metals to break down and escape from the separation screens in recycling facilities.

Failure to reuse cut card pieces may result in them being burned or buried in the ground. This situation can lead to both economic loss and preventable environmental pollution.

For this reason, recycling facilities point out that bank cards that have completed their useful life should be collected whole, without being torn into pieces.

FEAR OF CARD INFORMATION THEFT

It is stated that concerns that if the card is thrown away completely, the information will be obtained by others, have no equivalent in today's technology.

According to security experts, cards that have expired or are blocked for use through the banking system become technically dysfunctional.