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EMV Cards
“We could not be happier with our choice to bank with SouthStar. The customer service is truly second to none. If you’re looking for a true Texas bank with the best banking experience you’ll ever get, SouthStar is the one!” ~ Chandra A.
Made smarter to protect you better.
What is an EMV Card?
EMV stands for Europay, MasterCard® and Visa®, also referred to as ‘chip’ or ‘smart’ cards. In addition to the magnetic strip, located on the back of many cards, these cards include a computer chip. Unlike traditional cards, every time an EMV card is used for payment, the card chip creates a unique transaction code that cannot be used again. This makes data duplication more difficult, and, therefore, much harder for criminals to successfully profit from data breaches.
Most of all, it means greater protection against fraud.
Why the change to EMV cards?
At SouthStar Bank, we understand the value of security and convenience. The technology used in the ‘chip’ allows credit or debit cards to hold encrypted data, which helps prevent in-store payment fraud. EMV chip technology has already been adopted in the US and globally. This advancement allows users to make protected in-person purchases with ease around the globe.
How do I use my new card?
- Insert card face up, chip end first
- Leave your card inserted during the entire transaction
- Sign your name or enter your PIN as needed
- Don’t forget! Remove your card and take your receipt
EMV Card Frequently Asked Questions
Security- EMV cards have advanced security which has led to a reduction in card-present counterfeit fraud.
Universality- EMV cards can be used universally, so even if a merchant doesn’t have an EMV terminal you can still swipe your magnetic stripe.
Foreign Use- EMV cards are internationally accepted in over 130 countries.
Offline- EMV supports offline transaction verification for some chip-and-pin cards, meaning purchases can be processed without internet connectivity. This is not possible with older card readers or cards with only a magnetic stripe.
The chip stores information needed to authenticate, authorize, and process transactions. This is the same type of account information already stored in the magnetic strip. The chip card does not contain your account or account balance information.
EMV chip cards can be used anywhere around the world. Most merchants across the U.S. accept chip card transactions, however, EMV cards will also work at terminals where only magnetic strip transactions are accepted.
EMV cards are used in over 130 countries, including those in Europe and in most of the Middle East, Asia, Canada, Mexico, Brazil, Chile, and Africa, so you’ll enjoy greater acceptance when traveling internationally. To avoid service interruption, be sure to set a travel notice on any card(s) you plan to use while traveling by calling your financial institution. While traveling abroad, it is recommended that you have an alternate method of payment available just in case.
