Technology can solve this issue for the benefit of consumers

A relevant solution to solve this issue is to add an extra layer of security avoiding the capability to "repay" with the same data (card details - static information).

Would you accept a system where, by simply collecting your physical address (for ex. with YellowPages), someone is able to enter your home. This is quite the same by authorising a transaction based only on valid "card details" (identification information). A key to lock this system is missing!

In Europe, a one-time password solution using the chip of the already deployed banking cards, is gaining strong momentum. It replaces static-based methods (low security login-password for accessing online banking services; 'plastic' card details only to pay). This solution, named 'Home Chip and PIN' in the UK is also largely deployed in Scandinavia, Benelux, Switzerland, Eastern Europe and is beginning to roll-out in France and Italy (named 'Vericode').

By requesting a chip card-based strong authentication to allow a transaction (for example in the 3D-Secure architecture / Verified by Visa / MasterCard SecureCode), any stolen database information will become unuseful without a fresh One-Time signature and so, future heartland-like breaches will not force issuer to re-issue cards.