EMV Chip Cards

EMV stands for Europay, Mastercard & Visa, who began the technical standard for cards embedded with chips storing account data. This technology offers an extra layer of security beyond what is available on cards with magnetic strips only.

As the Blue Flame Debit Cards expire, the cards will be replaced with cards equipped with EMV chip technology. When you receive your new card, you will notice that it has something extra on the front. That is the EMV chip and it is designed to offer a higher level of protection for you.

There is no need to request your new card; when your current card expires, it will be replaced by an EMV chipped card. If you wish to have your card replaced before your current card expires, there will be an $8.00 charge for early replacement.

All Mastercards have been re-issued and replaced with cards containing EMV chips. All new debit and credit cards will be issued as EMV chip cards.

So how do chip cards work?

If a merchant is using a chip-enabled terminal, paying is as easy as:

1. Insert your card face up with the chip end placed into the terminal
2. Leave the card in the terminal during the entire transaction
3. Follow the instructions on the screen & either sign your name or enter PIN
4. Remove your card and take your receipt when the transaction completes

What if the merchant does not have a chip enabled terminal?

No worries, just swipe your card like you do today.

How do I use my card at an ATM?

The process is essentially the same as at a merchant. Insert your chip card into the terminal and follow instructions on the screen. Depending on the type of ATM, you might be prompted to re-insert your card. Leave the card in the ATM until the transaction is complete and the card is released. IMPORTANT: A PIN is needed for all ATM transactions.

How do I make purchases on the internet or by phone?

Nothing has changed for transactions made online or by telephone, so you’ll make payments just as you do today.