Square POS recognizes device but nothing swipes

[Freddyg103]

Hi,

My square app shows that I have a magstripe reader connected but then when I go to swipe, nothing happens! I've tried all the troubleshooting steps and even gotten a replacement but it doesn't scan.

Any idea?

[puka]

Hey @Freddyg103 - Sorry that you're running into issues using the reader! When I'm using the Magstripe for my own business transactions, I notice the speed at which you swipe the card can be a factor in how successful the reader can process the card information. If you swipe too slow, it won't read it so you have to do it a bit fast. I also like to hold the reader itself when I'm swiping to prevent any movement and then while swiping, I'll make it so that the card is rubbing a little closer to the back of the reader (if you're looking at the card face up, you'll add the tiniest bit of pressure down on the card so that there's a bit of friction between the card and the reader) and that usually does the trick.

Hope that helps! If you're still having issues, go ahead and reach out to our CS team and they might be able to advise on any other troubleshooting tips.