What Is Chip And PIN?

Chip and pin is a more secure method of purchasing items with your debit  or credit card in a shop.

Previously, the customer gave the card to the till operator in order to pay for their items. Nowadays, customers place the debit or credit card in a device next to the till. They then enter their PIN number so that only they can see what they are entering. The method was obviously created as a more secure way of paying with your credit or debit card.

There are advantages and disadvantages of this method. The advantage is that it is obviously more secure because you are entering your own PIN number rather than handing the card to the till operator. The disadvantage is that you are not totally isolated from people whilst you entering the number, which means that you may not feel secure entering your PIN if you are in a queue. Also, it can be quite embarrasing if you can't remember your PIN number!