A 121 card dump refers to a specific type of stolen credit card data, known as a "dump," which includes the information encoded on the magnetic stripe of a credit or debit card, particularly Track 1 and Track 2 data, along with the card's Personal Identification Number (PIN). The "121" refers to the service code embedded in the card's magnetic stripe data, which dictates how the card can be used.
Breakdown of a 121 Card Dump:
Card Dump: A digital copy of a credit or debit card’s magnetic stripe data, typically stolen through methods like skimming (using illegal card readers on ATMs or point-of-sale terminals), phishing, malware, or large-scale data breaches. This data can be used to create counterfeit cards or make unauthorized transactions.
Service Code 121: The service code is a three-digit number in the magnetic stripe data that defines usage restrictions. For a 121 code:
First digit (1): Indicates the card is for international interchange.
Second digit (2): Suggests online authorization is required (typically via magnetic stripe or chip).
Third digit (1): Indicates a PIN is required for transactions, meaning the card is likely intended for ATM or point-of-sale transactions where a PIN must be entered.
With PIN: A 121 dump typically includes the card’s PIN, making it more valuable to cybercriminals because it allows direct cash withdrawals from ATMs or in-person purchases without additional verification.
How It Differs from Other Dumps:
101 Dump: No chip, no PIN required, typically for swipe-only transactions.
201 Dump: Has a chip, but no PIN, used for chip-based transactions without PIN verification.
121 Dump: No chip, but includes a PIN, making it suitable for swipe transactions requiring PIN entry, such as ATM withdrawals.
How 121 Dumps Are Used:
Cardera use 121 dumps to:
Create counterfeit cards by encoding stolen data onto blank cards ("plastics") for use at ATMs or point-of-sale terminals.
Withdraw cash directly from ATMs using the stolen PIN.
Sell the data on dark web marketplaces for profit, often via cryptocurrency or wire transfers.