Abstract: A device and a method for processing coded information, including reading coded data from a chip card, reading a barcode reproduced on an item, and comparing the information read and information stored relating to a series of prespecified items. It also includes processing the results of these comparisons and writing, to the memory of the chip card, information arising on the one hand from the results of these comparisons and on the other hand from the date of purchase. Reading data from and writing information to the chip card is provided in respect of at least two different types of chip cards and includes identification of specific particulars and of acceptance or rejection of the chip cards on the basis of the specific particulars.