ATB Financial introduces you to chip

At ATB Financial your security is our priority. That is why we are implementing a new microchip technology that provides an enhanced level of protection against card fraud.

Chip technology is the latest innovation in electronic card payment and will make an already secure payment system even more secure. Countries all around the world have implemented chip technology, including Europe and Asia. Here in Canada, all financial institutions are in the process of implementing chip.

What is chip?

Chip cards have an embedded microchip that stores information in a secure, encrypted format. Encryption makes it virtually impossible for unauthorized users to copy or access the information on your card, when it is used at a chip-enabled merchant terminal or Automated Bank Machine (ABM).

Both chip debit cards and chip credit cards require the use of a Personal Identification Number (PIN) to verify your identity. The same way you use your debit card now. For credit cards, the use of a PIN for verification will replace the need for your signature. The use of a PIN with your chip MasterCard adds an extra layer of security.

How does this affect me?

Over the next several years, all debit cards, ATB MasterCards, point-of-sale terminals at merchants, and ATB ABMs, will be converted to the new chip technology.

If you currently have an ATB MasterCard and/or debit card, you will automatically receive your new chip card(s). In the meantime, there is no action required on your part.

Debit cardholders will continue to use their current PIN. ATB MasterCard customers will receive a PIN to use with the new chip MasterCard.

To ensure a smooth transition from the current magnetic stripe technology to chip, all point-of-sale terminals and ABMs will continue to accommodate both types of cards.

The roll-out of chip ATB MasterCards to customers began in 2008 and will be complete by mid 2010. If you have an ATB MasterCard you will automatically receive a new chip MasterCard and a PIN.	The roll-out of chip debit cards will begin in 2010 and will be complete by the end of 2011. You will automatically receive your new chip debit card and you will continue to use the same PIN you use now.

Additional Information
How do I use my chip card?
Common questions and answers
Merchants

If you have any questions or concerns about chip, please call us at 1-800-332-8383.
For branch hours and locations, please use our Branch Locator Tool.