Abstract: A novel solution to the vexing problem of how to secure a cashless transaction card and card account from unauthorized use. By adding enhanced security to a cashless transaction card, the present invention significantly reduces, and may in fact eliminate, unauthorized use of a cashless transaction card and card account. In accordance with embodiments of the present invention, a cashless transaction card and card account are linked with an authentication device that must be in proximity with the cashless transaction card when that card is being used for a cashless transaction. In this way, the present invention makes unauthorized use of the card significantly less likely. The authentication device is chosen by the owner and linked thereby with the cashless transaction card and card account. Only when the authentication device is in proximity with the cashless transaction card will a cashless transaction be authorized.