If your payment terminal displays the message "Tampered", it means the device's security system has been triggered.
Payment terminals include built-in security features designed to protect cardholder data. If the device detects that it may have been opened, damaged, or interfered with, it will automatically lock itself and display a Tampered message.
Unfortunately, a tampered terminal cannot be repaired or reset. For security reasons, it must be replaced.
What You Should Do
If you see Tampered on your terminal screen:
Stop using the terminal immediately.
Contact your main customer service team right away.
Let them know your terminal is displaying "Tampered."
If the terminal arrived already showing Tampered (for example, a newly delivered or recently replaced device), be sure to mention this to your support team — it's important for how your return is processed.
Your team will arrange for a replacement terminal to be sent as soon as possible.
Why This Happens
A terminal may display Tampered if it detects a potential security issue, such as:
The device being opened or physically altered
Internal security sensors being triggered
Physical damage to the terminal
Environmental or handling issues that activate the anti-tamper protection
These security protections are required to keep payment data safe.
Important to Know
A Tampered terminal cannot be fixed or reset
The device must be replaced
Contacting your customer service team immediately will help ensure a replacement is sent quickly
If the terminal arrived in a Tampered state, let your support team know — this is important for how the return is handled with Adyen
Happening More Than Once?
If your terminals are going into tamper mode more regularly, this may be related to how they are being cleaned. Certain cleaning products or methods can accidentally trigger a terminal's built-in security sensors.
Let your support team know if this is a recurring issue — they can provide guidance on safe cleaning procedures to help prevent it from happening again.
If you experience this error, your support team will help you get a new terminal up and running as soon as possible so you can continue accepting payments without disruption.