Beginning in July, all Salal debit cards will feature the enhanced security of EMV/chip card technology. Members who currently have magnetic stripped debit cards will be receiving a new chip card between July and September. Debit and credit cards issued in our branches will also be chip-enabled cards.
Because this technology is new, we’ve put together some FAQs below. As always, feel free to call us with questions at 800-562-5515.
What is a chip-enabled card?
Chip cards are credit and debit cards that have an embedded chip, a small metallic square, on the front. They also have a magnetic stripe on the back so you can use them at stores that don’t accept chip cards yet. Chip cards offer you advanced security when you use them to pay at a chip-enabled terminal or ATM.
Why are chip card transactions more secure?
Chip card transactions offer advanced security for in-store payments by using dynamic data. Each time the card is used, a unique transaction code is created that cannot be used again, making it more difficult to counterfeit or copy.
How will I use my chip card in stores?
During the transition to chip, you can swipe your card as you normally would and follow the prompts. If the terminal is chip-enabled, it will prompt you to insert it instead. These basic steps will help ensure successful transactions:
- Insert your card with the chip facing toward the terminal, facing up. Do not remove until prompted.
- Provide your signature or PIN as prompted by the terminal. Some transactions may not require either.
- When the terminal says your transaction is complete, you may remove your card.
Always remember when you use your chip card to follow the prompts on the terminal and leave your card inserted until prompted to remove it.
Can I still pay in store or use an ATM if I don’t have a chip card?
Yes, merchants and ATMs will continue to accept magnetic stripe cards.
Can I still use my chip-enabled card at a non-chip-enabled ATM or merchant terminal?
Yes. Your card will have a chip and a magnetic stripe to accommodate any situation.
What does a chip-enabled merchant terminal look like?
Chip-enabled terminals have all of the features you are used to with a payment terminal, with the addition of a slot to insert your card. The slot is typically located at the bottom or the top of the payment terminal.
Does the chip change anything about my Salal credit or debit card?
No. The chip is purely a security enhancement. It does not affect fees or benefits in any way, and because chip cards are already implemented in over 130 countries throughout the world, your card will work for most international travel. Our new chip-embedded debit cards do feature a new flat design and no longer have raised numbers.Â
Can I use my chip-enabled card outside of the U.S.?
Yes. Chip cards are widely used in international markets and are accepted in more than 80 countries. Having a chip card will make it easier for you to make purchases and complete ATM transactions when you travel internationally.
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