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When using your Credit Card or Check Card outside the United
States |
A new technology in retail purchase transactions began earlier this year in
England, and other foreign countries. British credit card fraud ($914 million
reported in 2004) has reduced with introduction of "Chip and PIN" credit cards.
The traditional signature process now replaced by a 4-digit PIN, similar to your
TCU VISA® Check Card retail purchases. England fully-upgraded in February,
issuing brand new "smart" cards embedded with a micro-chip containing customer
PIN information.
One may observe, "I already have a PIN to use my credit card and/or check card."
While correct, it is only valid here in the U.S. banking network. The PIN is not
recognized by overseas retail locations due to the required micro-chip. Not to
worry, the new card readers come with magnetic-stripe scanners, transactions can
be processed "traditionally" with signature approval.
How will this technology affect your purchase experience? If you frequent a
popular tourist area, merchants will be aware of the "traditional" U.S. credit
cards. If you travel off-the-beaten-path, be sure to talk to the merchant before
making retail purchases. Simply mention you have an American-issued card, ask
sales clerk to follow the prompts on the terminal, and sign a physical receipt.
Polite firmness may be needed if denied by the clerk, please offer photo I.D.
and ask for the manager's assistance. All merchants that display the VISA® or
MasterCard logo are required to accept transactions.
Check cards and ATM cards are accepted at majority of ATM locations worldwide
displaying the VISA®, STAR, or PLUS logos.
For more information, please visit
www.chipandpin.co.uk |
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