Chip Cards
Chip Card Technology Q&A
1. Insert your chip card into a chip-friendly reader
2. Leave your card in the reader and follow the prompts.
3. Remove your chip card when prompted.What is chip technology?
Also known as EMV or smart chip technology, it adds a new layer of security to your card transactions. The chip protects in-store payments because it generates a unique, one-time code that is needed for each transaction to be approved. It is virtually impossible for fraudsters to replicate this feature in counterfeit cards, providing you greater security and peace of mind when making transactions at a chip-enabled terminal.
Why does my debit card now include a chip?
As chip technology will soon become the security standard in the U.S., many merchants are beginning to accept chip cards and we want you to be ready. You'll have greater security when making purchases at a chip-enabled terminal since the chip provides better protection against counterfeit fraud. Chip technology is already used in over 130 countries around the world, including Canada, Mexico and the United Kingdom, so you'll also enjoy greater acceptance when traveling internationally.
How does a chip card work?
It's easy. If the retailer has a chip-enabled terminal, simply insert the chip end of your card face up into the terminal. The chip card will remain in the terminal while the transaction is processed. To authorize your transaction, just follow the prompts as you do today.
You'll be prompted to enter your PIN or to provide a signature as you normally would to verify the transaction. Your card will remain in the terminal until the transaction is completed.
If the retailer is not equipped to read the chip card, just swipe as you do today. However, if you swipe your chip card at a chip-enabled terminal, the terminal may prompt you to insert your chip card into the terminal. Transactions made over the phone or online will not change.
Can I use my chip card for all the same things as my old card?
Yes, you can still make purchases as you always have — by entering the card number online or swiping your card at merchant locations that do not yet have chip readers. You can also continue to use your card at ATMs.
Are chip cards safer to use than magnetic stripe cards?
All of our cards are safe, and offer protection from unauthorized use of your card or account information. Chip technology offers another layer of security when used at a chip-reading terminal, because it generates a unique, one-time code that is needed for each transaction to be approved.
Now that I have a chip card, do I need to notify the bank before I travel?
Yes, you still need to contact us in order set a travel notice on any card(s) you plan to use while traveling, so your card access isn't interrupted. For your protection, we'll continue to monitor card activity even when a travel notice is set. If you encounter any issues while traveling, we're here to help.
Are there any situations where I could experience issues using my chip card?
When traveling outside the U.S., some card readers at unattended terminals (such as public transportation kiosks, gas pumps) will require a PIN. However, this type of PIN technology is different than what you normally use for PIN transactions in the U.S and the card won't be accepted. In these situations, please locate an attended terminal to complete your transaction or plan for an alternative payment method, such as local currency.
Will my chip card still work at an ATM?
Yes. You can continue to use your card as you do today by following the instructions at an ATM.