EMV Visa Credit Card FAQs

What does EMV stand for?

Euro Pay, Master Card and Visa.

What is a chip-based card?

A Chip Card contains an embedded microchip that encrypts card member information into a unique code that significantly increases transaction and account data security when used at a chip-enabled terminal, and makes card cloning and fraud more difficult.

Chip Card, EMV card, smart Chip card…what’s the difference?

These are all just different terms for the same technology. The technology used in these credit cards is commonly known as being EMV-enabled, which stands for Europay, MasterCard and Visa, which uphold the chip technology. These cards are a global standard for processing credit and debit card payments. Various credit card companies may refer to Chip Cards slightly differently, but they all function to help keep your card more secure.

How secure are EMV cards?

Because EMV chip cards use cryptograms that are unique to each transaction, stolen chip card data cannot be used to create counterfeit cards. The added layer of security provided by EMV chips makes debit and credit card data much less valuable, decreasing incentive for fraudsters to steal data. With EMV chip cards, cardholders are still protected from fraudulent purchases with Visa’s Zero Liability* Policy.

What information is stored in the EMV chip?

The EMV chip stores information needed to process the transaction. The chip does not store any location tracking capabilities or personal information.

Should I be worried that my personal information is vulnerable if my card gets lost or stolen?

The embedded microchip makes card member information much more difficult to duplicate or copy, and provides enhanced fraud protection on your account when used at a chip-enabled terminal. If your card is lost or stolen, you should call the number on the back of your credit card so we can issue a new Chip Card to you.

Do I need a special wallet to protect my chip card from being scanned by fraudsters?

No, Our chip cards are not contactless cards.  The only way they can be read is by inserting into an EMV capable terminal.  Our cards will not have the Radio Frequency ID (RFID) that contactless cards contain.

How do I use the EMV chip card?

Merchants who have an EMV chip-activated terminal can process chip card transactions. You insert your card into the terminal and you do not remove your card until after the transaction is complete.

Can I still swipe my card to pay?

Yes, you can still swipe your chip-enabled card using the magnetic stripe on the back of the card at merchants who haven’t yet updated their terminals.

Can I use an EMV card online or over the phone?

Yes, you can use your EMV card for payment over-the-phone or online just like you always have.

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