What are chip cards?

Chip cards are like the card you have today but include an embedded microchip. The chip contains information that is encrypted, making it extremely difficult for the card to be copied or counterfeited. Your chip card will also have the usual magnetic stripe on the back so you can continue using your card while merchants are transitioning to new terminals.

What are the benefits of chip technology?

The embedded microchip provides strong transaction security features, and other application capabilities, not possible with traditional magnetic stripe cards. A chip card is extremely difficult to counterfeit.

Why is my card being upgraded to a chip card?

Chip technology is already used in other countries and now coming to the U.S. Your chip card provides an extra level of security and is easier to use at international locations.

How is the chip card different from a magnetic stripe card?

A chip card looks just like a traditional card with an embedded chip in addition to the standard magnetic stripe on the back of the card. Rather than swiping your card when making a purchase, you will insert your card into a terminal to complete the transaction. Once your transaction has been completed, you will be prompted to remove your card from the terminal.

How does chip technology work?

The chip in the card communicates with the terminal to determine whether or not your card is authentic. Depending on the security preferences associated with your chip card as well as the terminal, you will be prompted to provide your signature or Personal Identification Number (PIN) to complete your transaction.

Are chip cards new?

Although chip cards are relatively new in the U.S., they have been used in other countries for many years. In some foreign countries, particularly in Europe, chip cards continue to be widely used and have been successful in reducing fraud.

Where can I use my chip card?

You can use your chip card everywhere you shop today. Insert your card into a chip-enabled terminal or swipe your card at merchant locations that have not yet switched to chip-enabled terminals. You can also continue to use your card as you did before - for online transactions, mail order/ telephone order transactions, pay at the pump fuel purchases, and at A TM machines.

If you have any questions, please call one of our locations or (361) 888-9310.