EMV Debit Card – Member FAQs
Many members are choosing debit cards over credit and paper checks. It makes checkout faster, as the money is withdrawn directly from your checking account.
Some savvy savers transfer a specific amount into their checking account each month to limit impulse spending with their debit card.
But are debit cards safe to use? Here are some common questions about using debit cards and our replies.
Card Overview
What is an EMV (chip) card?
Chip cards are regular plastic credit or debit cards with an embedded microchip. 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 greater security and peace of mind when used in-store. A chip card also has a magnetic stripe on the back of the card.
Do I need to use a PIN with my chip card?
In most cases, you’ll either sign or enter your PIN for debit purchases — just like you do today.
Can I use my chip card for all the same things as an unchipped 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.
Can I use a chip card at a merchant with an older terminal?
Of course – if a chip-activated terminal is not available, you can swipe your card just like you do today using the magnetic stripe on the back of the card.
Card Usage
Where can I use my chip card?
You can use your chip card anywhere Visa cards are accepted. If the terminal is activated for chip cards, you will be prompted to insert and leave the card in the terminal until the transaction is complete.
Can I still use my card over the phone or online?
Absolutely. Your card will work over the phone and online just like it always has.
What if my chip card doesn’t work when I insert it into the chip terminal?
Some merchants may have chip terminals, but they may not yet be activated to accept chip cards. Most often, merchants that haven’t activated their terminals will block the chip slot. If the terminal is unable to read your chip card, you will be prompted to swipe the magnetic stripe to complete the transaction.
How will I know whether to swipe my card or insert it?
Your card will always work either by swipe or insertion. The terminal or the cashier will prompt you to insert the card into the terminal if it’s activated for chip technology. If the terminal is not yet chip-activated, you can always swipe your card to complete the purchase.
Card Security
Are chip cards more secure than magnetic stripe cards?
All Visa cards offer protection from unauthorized use of your card or account information. Visa chip technology offers another layer of security when used at a chip-activated terminal, because it generates a unique, one-time code that is needed for each transaction to be approved.
Can account data from a chip card be stolen and used fraudulently?
All Visa cards offer protection from unauthorized use of your card or account information. While chip technology generates a one-time use code that’s difficult to counterfeit, the account information may still be subject to compromise. Notify the Credit Union immediately of any unauthorized use.
Other Questions or Comments?
Call our Debit Card Care Center at 1-833-311-0079.