Maestro Global Rules (PDF) - MasterCard

Issuing
6.2 Card Standards and Specifications
It is strongly recommended that Issuers encode extended service code values
120 (or 220)—online authorization, PIN required—on Cards for which
Maestro is the primary acceptance brand. Note: This does not apply to
Maestro-branded MasterCard cards, as the primary acceptance brand in this
instance is MasterCard.
The only acceptable values for encoding new or re-issued Cards are as follows:
Position Value Description
1 1 Available for International Interchange
2 Available for International Interchange(alternative
technology—Chip Card)
2 0 Normal authorization
2 Positive online authorization required
3 0 PIN required
1 Normal Cardholder verification, no restrictions
6 Prompt for PIN if PIN pad present
Issuers that encode value “0” (normal authorization) in position 2 of the
extended service code must accept liability for any purchase Transaction
completed at a cardholder-activated terminal (CAT).
Issuers that encode values “1” (normal Cardholder verification, no restrictions)
or “6” (prompt for PIN if PIN entry device present) in position 3 of the extended
service code must not decline Transactions simply because they do not contain
a PIN.
Effective 1 January 2007, all Cards must use the values contained in the chart
above for encoding purposes. No other values will be allowed.
It is recommended that Issuers set authorization parameters that decline any
magnetic stripe Transaction containing the invalid service code value of 000 for
purposes of fraud prevention.
6.2.1.6 Discretionary Data
All other encoded data not listed in Rule 6.2.1.2 is discretionary data, and under
the Issuer’s control.
This data is routed to Issuers for manipulation and verification in messages, as
specified in the applicable technical specifications.
This data must be encoded between the service code and the end sentinel, and
only contain valid characters in accordance with ISO 7813.
It is recommended that the discretionary data field be encoded as specified in
Appendix B, “Technical Specifications.”
©1993–2012 MasterCard. Proprietary. All rights reserved.
6-6 9 November 2012 • Maestro Global Rules