Chip and PIN technology will be introduced to the rest of the United Kingdom, Channel Islands and Isle of Man by the end of 2005.

• Chip and PIN combines modern robust technology in a chip card with the security of a PIN (Personal Identification Number) to offer you a more secure way to pay.
• Instead of signing a receipt when buying goods in person, you will be asked to key in your 4-digit PIN into a secure PIN pad.

Chip - evolution...
The banking industry is upgrading its cards to chip and PIN to help combat fraud.

• A new type of microchip is being introduced to the front of the card - you'll notice a gold square on the left hand side.
• Chip technology has been proven to reduce card crime since it's harder to copy or alter than traditional cards and so safeguards against counterfeiting.

...PIN - revolution
A 4-digit PIN will confirm your transaction instead of your signature.

• Because it's checked by technology rather than by eye, the new PIN system is more secure, and it can't be forged easily - unlike your signature.
• There's no need to worry about entering your PIN into a retailer's PIN pad - it won't be kept or recorded in any way.

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