Chip Cards

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a chip aka EMV card?

A chip card, also called an EMV card, is equipped with a secure computer chip. The chip produces a one-time code that is used by the merchant to process a payment. Not all businesses in the United States can accept an EMV card just yet, so cards are still being printed with the traditional magnetic stripe on the back. Most merchants who have completed the upgrade will accept both card types while banks go through the process of updating cards.

Why is the industry changing to chip cards?

Chip Cards have been used overseas for many years. To date, the industry sees less crime in other countries because fraud is easier with the magnetic stripe. In an effort to reduce fraud, EMV cards are now being issued in the U.S. EMV cards are harder to replicate because of the one-time code that is generated when the card is “swiped” at the pay station. The code only works for one transaction, so it doesn’t matter if it is intercepted at the point of sale. Conversely, if a magnetic stripe is read at the terminal and someone intercepts your information, the crook can take your information and process other payments.

What if I don’t have a chip card?

You can still use your current card! Merchant terminals are being updated, but they still have the technology to accept a swipe from a magnetic stripe.

I’ve heard that chip cards aren’t “swiped”. What’s so different about the new cards?

Card Terminals are built with the magnetic swipe machine on top and the chip card slot on the bottom. Your chip card will need to be inserted into the bottom of the card reader. The machine should instruct you to leave your card in the machine for several seconds while the code is created and read. The code will be scanned and then you should be instructed to remove your card.

When will I be able to get an EMV card from Central National Bank?

You can expect your chip card to arrive when your existing debit card expires.

What happens when I use a Central National Bank ATM?

Getting cash from our ATMs is just as simple as paying for groceries. When inserting your card, our ATMs will clamp down on your card and search for a chip. If no chip is found, you can pull your card out. If a chip is found, you will need to keep your card inserted until you complete your transaction.

What if I walk away from a CNB ATM and forget my card?

We thought of that! Before dispensing your cash, our ATMs will ask you to remove your card. After the ATM sees that the card is removed, your cash will be dispensed. Just follow the easy on-screen prompts.