FAQ on the Chip Card - A Little Chip with a Lot of Security

What is chip & PIN (Personal Identification Number) technology?

New HBC^† MasterCards^® are enabled with chip technology and can be used everywhere MasterCard is accepted. The microchip is embedded in the card so that the card is extremely difficult to replicate.

How is a chip card used?

• Insert your HBC MasterCard into the chip terminal.
• Enter your PIN then leave your card in the terminal while your transaction is processing.
• Remove your card from the terminal once your transaction is completely processed and obtain the receipt.

Note – your PIN replaces your signature at chip enabled merchants.

How do I make a purchase from merchants that don't have the Chip & PIN technology?

The chip card will also have a magnetic stripe. Merchants without the chip technology will swipe the card, and you will then sign the receipt.

Is using the magnetic stripe still safe?

It continues to be a safe option, however, chip technology provides a more advanced form of security. In either case, if your HBC MasterCard is stolen, the same protection still applies to you.

How do I setup my PIN?

You can choose and change your PIN at anytime by calling us at 1 866 640-7858 from your home and following the prompts.

How do a I choose a PIN?

Choose a PIN that is easy for you to remember but difficult for others to figure out. Avoid numbers that are linked to your personal information. Never disclose your PIN to anyone, and ensure that people can't see the numbers as you're entering in your PIN.

What do I do if I suspect that someone else knows my number?

Change your PIN immediately if your card is lost or stolen or if you suspect that someone else knows your number.

Is there an additional fee related to having a chip enabled HBC MasterCard?

No, there is no additional fee to receive a chip card, or to use it.

When will I receive my chip & PIN HBC MasterCard?

When your card expires, it will be replaced by a new chip card.