A new payment system to reduce card crime

Debit and credit cards offer a quick, easy way to pay - but the way you use your card has changed. A new payment system called chip and PIN has been introduced and cards are being issued now in circulation.

Chip and PIN - cracking down on crime

The chip and PIN system has been introduced to cut card crime, which was a growing problem in the UK.

Card crime in the UK - did you know?

• One in three people have been affected by card crime.
• A large proportion of revenue generated by card crime funds organised crime.
• In the 12 months to June 2004, card crime cost the UK £478m - that's over £1m a day.
• This figure is expected to increase to £800m in the next two years if nothing is done.
• A big part of the problem is that signatures can be forged and are difficult for merchants to check.

Chip and PIN has been developed with the support of all the major merchants, banks, key consumer groups, the police and the Government. Chip and PIN is a more secure way of paying for goods, which means extra peace of mind for you.

For more information about chip and PIN, visit the official chip and PIN website.

What customers tell us

Customers have a very positive attitude about the improved security provided by chip and PIN.

• They find chip and PIN easy to use.
• Disabled customers are generally positive about chip and PIN and see it as offering an easier, more convenient way of paying with plastic compared with using signature. Many find their initial concerns are alleviated once they've used the system for the first time. 
• It's quicker than signing.