What is the primary function of a card capture by an ATM device?

The primary function of a card capture by an ATM device is to capture cards that are reported lost or stolen. This process is crucial for maintaining security within the electronic transactions system. When a card is reported lost or stolen, the issuing bank will often instruct ATMs to capture the card if it is inserted. This ensures that the card cannot be used for unauthorized transactions, thereby protecting the cardholder's funds and information. The ATM captures the card, preventing it from ongoing use, and facilitates its return to the issuing bank for appropriate action.

While the other options touch on transactions and services provided by ATMs, they do not specifically address the key security function of capturing cards that might pose a risk to the cardholder or the bank. Dispensing cash, generating transaction receipts, and upgrading cardholder information are important functions of ATMs, but they are not the reason for card capture in the context of preventing fraud and theft.