POS Terminals Error Code
Systems & Devices
POS Terminals
SWIPE READ | Magstripe read error
Industry
Systems & Devices
Canonical
/systems/pos-terminals/error-codes/swipe-read-error/
Last Updated
Feb 27, 2026
Summary
The terminal could not read the magstripe data from the card during a swipe.
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What This Code Means
Magstripe read errors occur when the swipe data is incomplete or cannot be decoded. Common causes include damaged stripes, dirty readers, or improper swipe speed.
Where Users Usually See This Code
- Swipe transactions when chip/tap is unavailable
- Older cards with worn magstripes
Why This Code Appears
- Magstripe is scratched or demagnetized
- Reader is dirty or worn
- Swipe speed/angle caused incomplete read
What Typically Happens Next
- Terminal requests another swipe or different payment method
What This Code Is Not
- It is not a decline decision by the issuer
- It is not a batch close error
Troubleshooting Checklist
- □ Retry swipe with steady speed and correct orientation
- □ Clean the reader per vendor guidance
- □ Use chip/tap if possible
Notes And Edge Cases
Many merchants restrict magstripe fallback for EMV cards; follow processor rules.
Related Codes
8 links
- ICC READ CodeChip read error
- EMV FALLBACK CodeChip fallback
- COMMUNICATION ERROR CodeHost communication failed
- BATCH NOT CLOSED CodeSettlement pending
- DECLINED CodeIssuer declined
- HOST UNAVAILABLE CodeHost unreachable
- INVALID TID CodeTerminal ID invalid
- KEYS NOT LOADED CodeEncryption keys missing
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