EMV Chips

EMV Chip Technology

Card issuers across the country, including Fidelity Bank, have transitioned to a new form of credit cards and debit cards that feature enhanced security. EMV, or chip, cards utilize a built-in chip that generates an encrypted one-time use code at the time of purchase, making the cards virtually impossible to counterfeit. In addition to new cards, merchants will also be upgrading their processing equipment to accept EMV cards. We encourage you to read the frequently asked questions below to learn more about EMV cards.

EMV FAQ

Q: What is an EMV card?

A: EMV stands for Europay, MasterCard and Visa. The new EMV cards (also referred to as Smart card, Chip card, Smart-chip card, EMV smart card, Chip-and-choice card - PIN or signature, or Chip-enabled smart card) feature built-in chip technology on your VISA® debit card that allows global acceptance and an enhanced level of security.

Q: How does chip technology protect my information?

A: Whenever you use your card at a chip-activated terminal, the embedded chip generates an encrypted one-time use code. This code is virtually impossible to counterfeit and helps reduce in-store fraud.

Q: Do chip cards no longer have magnetic stripes?

A: During the transition, cards will feature both the chip and magnetic stripe technology.

Q: When will Fidelity have Chip Cards?

A: All of our Fidelity credit cards and debit card products are issued with Chip Technology. Debit cards with EMV chips will be distributed to customers by instant issue at a branch or by mail when they reach their normal reissue date.