Logo: Ulster Bank
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What is Chip & PIN? * How will it work? * The importance of your PIN * When will it happen? * Frequently asked questions
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Chip and PIN logoChip & PIN – Changing the way you use your card

What is Chip & PIN?

Chip & PIN is a new, more secure way to make card payments which is designed to protect cardholders from the risk and inconvenience of card fraud. Instead of signing a sales slip to confirm card purchases at retail stores, Chip & PIN cardholders will enter their 4–digit Personal Identification Number (PIN) on a PIN pad to verify the transaction.

The new Chip & PIN technology is part of a Government backed initiative which is being fully funded by banks, retailers and card issuers.

Over the next few years Chip & PIN will become the standard way to pay using a credit, debit or Purchasing card.

Why is it more secure?

The new system combines a microchip with a Personal Identification Number (PIN). The microchip contained within the card stores data more securely and helps to prevent counterfeiting, while the PIN helps to ensure that the person using the card is the genuine owner, unlike a signature which can be easily forged. Known as 'Chip & PIN' cards or 'PIN Protected' cards, the combination of Chip and PIN has been proven to be highly effective in combating card fraud.

Now read... How will it work?