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Tag Systems Secures Visa and Mastercard Approvals for Next-Gen UK Payment Card Security

By Lauren Towner · 9 July 2026

Press Release: Tag Systems Secures Visa and Mastercard Approvals for Next-Gen UK Payment Card Security | Featured Image by FF News

Quick Summary

Tag Systems has achieved global approval for Visa 3.1 VIS and VCPS specifications while developing support for Mastercard’s ECOS payment architecture. This enables UK banks and fintechs to transition to next-generation payment card security with advanced cryptographic protection and seamless contactless experiences.

How does Tag Systems solve payment card security challenges?

Tag Systems helps UK issuers navigate the complex transition to next-generation payment card security by providing early access to approved specifications. By securing public approval for Visa 3.1 VIS and VCPS, the company ensures that banks can launch programmes that are compliant with the latest global standards. This proactive approach reduces future migration risk and allows for a gradual, non-disruptive update of card portfolios.

  • Advanced Cryptographic Security: Enhanced protection against evolving digital threats.
  • Modular CaaS Platform: A single ecosystem for manufacturing, processing, and analytics.
  • Global R&D Support: Leveraging AUSTRIACARD HOLDINGS for local and international expertise.

What are the benefits of Mastercard ECOS and Visa 3.1?

The introduction of Mastercard ECOS and Visa's updated specifications represents a significant leap in contactless payment architecture. These standards combine stronger cryptographic protection with the speed and convenience consumers demand. For UK fintechs, adopting these standards early means their card issuance programmes are future-proofed against upcoming scheme mandates, ensuring long-term operational stability and compliance.

How does Card as a Service (CaaS) support UK fintechs?

Tag Systems is evolving beyond traditional manufacturing into a technology partner role through its modular Card as a Service (CaaS) offering. This platform integrates tokenisation and analytics with core issuing and processing capabilities. By providing a scalable technology ecosystem, Tag Systems allows UK banks to adopt next-generation payment card security features at their own pace, rather than reacting under pressure to new regulatory or scheme requirements.

FF NEWS TAKE:

This move by Tag Systems definitely moves the needle for the UK market. As next-generation payment card security becomes a non-negotiable requirement for fraud prevention, being an early mover on Visa 3.1 VIS and Mastercard ECOS gives Tag Systems a significant competitive edge. For UK banks, this isn't just about compliance; it's about building consumer trust through superior cryptographic standards in an increasingly digital-first economy.

Companies in this story: Visa, AUSTRIACARD HOLDINGS, Mastercard, Tag Systems

People in this story: Dean Smith

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