Abstract: A transactor for use in connection with transactions involving secure and non-secure information is configured to present notices on user interface screens associated with a non-secure operating mode so as to caution users not to enter secure information. When the transactor operates in a secure mode, no such notices are presented. In addition, when in the secure mode, the transactor may be configured to accept data inputs only from designated areas of a user interface, such as a touch screen.

Abstract: A terminal for contactless communication with portable objects comprises a wave pickup device responsive to the magnetic component of an electromagnetic field, and a receiver which cooperates with the wave pickup device to receive and amplify signals picked up thereby. The wave pickup device comprises at least two distinct and adjacently disposed wave pickup elements spaced apart by a predetermined gap, and a discriminator for deriving a discrimination signal from the signals picked up by each of the wave pickup elements during a given period. The discrimination signal indicates which one of the wave pickup elements has received a signal of greater amplitude.

Abstract: The portable object includes an electronic circuit powered by an internal battery and having a data memory; it enables data to be interchanged with the outside without making direct electrical contact. It comprises a pierceable zone forming a region of the housing of the object, and a plurality of contact areas inside the housing and in register with the pierceable zone, the contact areas being connected to power supply lines for the electronic circuit, the areas being suitable for being put into contact with electrically conductive spikes connected to an external power supply circuit and pushed through the pierceable zone, thereby enabling the electronic circuit of the object to be powered and thus making good any exhaustion or failure of its internal battery, in particular in order to provide access to the data memory.