What characterizes an EMV Compliant card or terminal?

An EMV Compliant card or terminal is characterized by its adherence to the EMV Integrated Circuit Card Specifications, which define how the card interacts with payment terminals to ensure secure transactions. The use of an embedded microprocessor chip in the card is a key feature that allows for enhanced security measures, such as dynamic data authentication and cardholder verification methods. Compliance with these specifications allows for interoperability between various payment systems and helps reduce fraud in card-present transactions.

Focusing on the other options, while a terminal may or may not require a PIN, this does not specifically define EMV compliance. EMV technology is not exclusive to Visa; it is a global standard that applies to many card networks, including Mastercard, American Express, and others. Additionally, while EMV technology can support offline transaction processing, this is not a defining characteristic of EMV compliance itself, as online verifications are typically preferred for enhanced security. Thus, the essential feature that highlights EMV compliance is its alignment with the EMV Integrated Circuit Card Specifications.