What is a Visa® chip card?

A Visa chip card is a credit or debit card with an embedded microchip that provides an extra layer of protection when used in stores with a chip-activated reader.

What are the benefits of using a Visa chip card?

You can pay with confidence. Every time a Visa chip card is used at a chip-activated terminal, a unique one-time use code is generated for the transaction to be approved. This feature is virtually impossible to replicate in a counterfeit card.

How do you use a Visa chip card?

Visa chip cards are designed to be simple—everywhere. Unless the retailer tells you the chip reader is not chip enabled, always dip your chip, don’t swipe.

When using a Visa chip card at a chip-activated terminal:

  1. Insert the chip end of the card into the terminal (instead of swiping).
  2. Keep the card in the terminal and follow the prompts to complete the purchase.
  3. Cardholders should remember to take their card with them when they leave.

Chip cards offer these advantages.

1. Added security

  • “Chip cards” use cryptograms, a short piece of encrypted text unique to each transaction.
  • Stolen chip card data cannot be used to create counterfeit cards.
  • The added layer of security makes card data less valuable and decreases the incentive to steal data.

2. Smarter technology

  • Cards contain both a magnetic strip plus an embedded microchip that is virtually impossible to duplicate.
  • The computer chip enables more secure processing by producing a one-time use code for each transaction. The card can still be used with the traditional magnetic stripe when a merchant does not offer an chip card terminal.

3. Recognized worldwide

  • More than 130 countries already use chip card technology.
  • Chip cards work outside the USA.

Chip cards will continue to remain protected by VISA’s Zero Liability policy.

Chip card questions

Please stop by your local branch or call member services at 800-732-0173. Learn more about EMV chip cards and card protection at Oregon State Credit Union.

 

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