Tokenization involves replacing sensitive card details with tokens to facilitate secure digital payments. It works by having a payment provider request a token from a token service provider instead of actual card details when setting up a digital wallet or storing card on file. The token service provider generates a token, maps it to the card details in a secure token vault, and responds with the token. This token can then be used to process transactions, with the token service provider detokenizing it behind the scenes to retrieve the actual card number and complete the transaction securely. Tokenization standards help enable mobile wallets and digital payments while protecting consumers by avoiding storage of raw card data.