Introducing secure chip technology
At the Bendigo the security of your account and your money is important to us. That’s why we’ve added new chip technology to our debit and credit cards.
Widely used around the world, chip technology is now the global standard for debit and credit card security.
The new chip is embedded on the front of your card above the card number. The chip securely stores your card’s data, making it harder to fraudulently copy your card. The chip does not contain any of your personal information or details.
With chip technology – and the same magnetic stripe you’re used to – you have an additional layer of security and can continue to use your Bendigo Bank debit or credit card in Australia and around the world, just as you always have.
When will my Bendigo Bank debit or credit card be ‘chipped’?
If you have an existing Bendigo Bank debit or credit card, your card will be replaced with a ‘chipped’ card when it reaches its expiry date.
What is a chip card?
A ‘chip’ is a security microchip embedded in either a debit or credit card. The chip securely stores your card’s data, making it harder to fraudulently copy your card.
Now the global standard for debit and credit card security, security chips make it harder for criminals to fraudulently access card information and to make counterfeit copies of your card.
Will I need to use my new ‘chip’ card any differently?
As Australia shifts to chip technology, you may notice some minor differences in how your card is processed when making purchases.
If a merchant has had their terminal upgraded to process ‘chip’ card transactions, they will ask you to insert your card into the eftpos machine, rather than swipe it. The merchant will be able to show you how to insert your ‘chip’ card if you’re not sure.
If you’re inserting your ‘chip’ card into an eftpos machine you will need to leave it there for the duration of the transaction or until the merchant instructs you to remove your card.
At other merchants, your ‘chip’ card will be ‘swiped’ the same way as it always has been.
Can I continue to use the magnetic stripe on my card?
Yes. Although chip cards are becoming more widely used, you still need the magnetic stripe so you can use your card at eftpos machines and ATMs that have not yet been upgraded to accept chip technology.
ATMs and merchant terminals remain fully compatible with both chip and magnetic stripe cards, so your card will continue to work in all the places you currently shop (either in person, over the phone, online and at ATMs in Australia and overseas).
Can I use my new ‘chip’ card at ATMs?
Yes, you can use your ‘chipped’ card for your ATM banking requirements with no change.
Will my new ‘chip’ card be accepted overseas?
Chip technology is the global standard for debit and credit card security. In fact, using a ‘chip’ card with the addition of a PIN (rather than a signature) is considered the safest way to complete card transactions.
For these security reasons, some countries (especially in the United Kingdom and Europe) will only accept ‘chip’ cards with the use of a PIN, rather than your signature.
Can I continue to use a non-chip card when travelling overseas?
Yes. You can continue to use a non-chipped card in the same locations as a chipped card. However, in some countries you may be asked to use your PIN instead of signing to authorise your purchase – or you may be asked for both your signature and a PIN. For this reason, we recommend that you know your PIN when travelling overseas.
If you require assistance when travelling overseas, please call:
- MasterCard Global Assistance: +1 636 722 7111
- Visa Global Customer Assistance: +1 303 967 1090
How do I arrange for a new or replacement PIN for my debit or credit card?
If you cannot remember your PIN you can arrange a new one at any Bendigo Bank branch or call 1300 BENDIGO (1300 236 344).
Is there a Bendigo Bank brochure that provides information about ‘chip’ technology?
Yes, you can download a copy of the brochure here or collect one from your local Bendigo Bank branch.
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