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Personal Banking > Bank Accounts > Managing Your Bank Accounts > Ways to Bank > Chip technology and Interac Flash

Chip Technology and Interac Flash‡

Chip Technology and INTERAC Flash Chip technology and Interac Flash‡ is the next evolution of electronic payments in Canada, helping to make an already safe card payment system even more secure.

RBC Royal Bank® and the Canadian payment card industry have introduced chip and PIN technology and Interac Flash for most personal and business debit cards.

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You are on: How Chip Works

Already in wide use around the world, this state-of-the art technology provides enhanced protection for you against counterfeiting and card fraud because the embedded microchip is encrypted and virtually impossible to replicate.

While magnetic stripe technology is extremely secure, chip cards and chip card terminals work together to make a highly secure transaction system even MORE secure by electronically validating both the card and the cardholder. Used in combination with a Personal Identification Number (PIN) for transaction authorization (as you do today) your chip Client Card will provide you with an even higher level of security and peace of mind. (Note: As of January 1, 2013, non-chip Client Cards will not longer be accepted at any ATMs in Canada).

Interac Flash is a new contactless feature included on your RBC Royal Bank Client Card for no added fee. It lets you pay for small everyday purchases quickly and securely without having to swipe or insert your Client Card.

 

How it works

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You are on: Chip Technology and INTERAC Flash

Step 1 - Step2 - Step 3
Insert your Client Card into the chip-enabled terminal and leave it there. Your card should never leave your sight. This helps to further reduce the risk of fraud.
Follow the instructions as they appear on the screen and enter your PIN when prompted. You're the one in control of the transaction process.
When the transaction is complete, remove your card from the terminal and you're on your way. The overall process is quick and easy.
Picture of a Card Reader
Picture of a Card Reader
Picture of a Card Reader
TIP: Your RBC chip Client Card should be inserted chip first, with the chip facing up.
TIP: Remember to always protect your PIN and never disclose it to anyone. For more information on using your RBC chip Client Card and on protecting your PIN, click here.
TIP: Removing your card too soon could terminate the transaction before it's approved. Do not remove your card until prompted.

Chip cards, together with chip-enabled terminals make a secure transaction system even more secure by validating both the card and the cardholder electronically. You will notice some changes but overall the process is easy and extremely secure.

Using your chip Client Card is very similar to using your current Client Card. At store or point-of-sale terminals that are chip-enabled, you will only experience a minor change - instead of the merchant swiping your card as is done today, you will insert it into the terminal and leave it there for the duration of the transaction.

You are on: How Inteac Flash works

Step 1 - Step2 - Step 3
Look for the Interac Flash Symbol
Wave or tap your card on the secure card reader.
Wait for approval and you're ready to go.
Picture of a Card Reader
Picture of a Card Reader
Picture of a Card Reader

Using Interac Flash is a quick and easy way to pay for small everyday purchases without having to insert your Client Card or enter a PIN. Simply flash your Client Card against the Interac Flash-enabled reader, wait for approval and you're on your way. The transaction will automatically be debited from the account that you normally access using the Chequing button.

 
 

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You are on: Using your Client Card

You can use your chip and Interac Flash-enabled Client Card to make purchases anywhere that your Client Card is accepted today.

Over the next few years, businesses across Canada will install new chip or Interac Flash-enabled card readers. (The switchover will occur over time because payment service providers are making the transition to chip cards on different schedules.) In the meantime your Client Card will function the same way at debit card terminals and ATMs in the U.S. and at ATMs around the world. All chip cards will still have a magnetic stripe to ensure they are accepted everywhere and your transactions remain secure. At terminals that don't recognize chip or Interac Flash-enabled cards, you'll just swipe your card and enter your PIN as you do today.

Travelling with your Client Card

To ensure ultimate convenience and accessibility to funds when travelling outside of Canada, you should always carry more than one form of payment, such as your Client Card and a credit card, traveller's cheques or small amounts of local currency. This will help in the event that you encounter potential service disruptions like power outages or system problems. For additional information about travelling and your finances, please visit RBC Travel Essentials.

Please note: Interac Flash is not available at non-Flash enabled terminals or outside Canada.

 

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You are on: Protecting your PIN

Your PIN continues to be a key security element of the transactions made with your RBC chip Client Card. It is very important that you remember your PIN. Do not write it down and do not disclose it to anyone. As always, it is very important that you safeguard your PIN and take the steps necessary to protect it and yourself from potential card fraud.

  • Never disclose your PIN to anyone including financial institution employees, law enforcement agencies, friends or even family members.
  • Choose a PIN that's easy for you to remember and known only to you. You should also consider changing your PIN from time to time.
  • Avoid using numbers that can be easily inferred from your personal information such as your date of birth, address, social insurance number, phone number, etc.
  • Do not write down your PIN or store it electronically.
  • Always shield the PIN pad when entering your PIN
  • If you travel, it is recommended that you choose a four-digit PIN, as some overseas terminals are not programmed to accept anything more than four digits.
  • If you suspect that your PIN has been compromised, change it immediately by visiting an RBC Royal Bank branch.
  • Visit our Privacy and Security page RBC Privacy Policy page (opens new window) to learn more about protecting yourself and your information.

Changing your PIN is Simple

If you'd like to change your PIN or if you've forgotten your PIN, simply visit an RBC branch to have it reset. For your protection, please remember to bring two valid pieces of identification with you.

Please note: PIN is not required for Interac Flash transactions.

 

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You are on: What's Next?

The conversion to chip technology and Interac Flash will take some time. As merchants upgrade their terminals to accept chip technology and Interac Flash, you can continue to use your Client Card with chip technology with confidence, just as you do today.

Most RBC Client Cards currently being issued include both chip technology and Interac Flash. Any client requesting a replacement card will automatically receive a Flash-enabled card. (Note: As of January 1, 2013, non-chip Client Cards will no longer be accepted at any ATMs in Canada).

Rest assured that all transactions are just as secure as ever, when completed with an RBC chip Client Card. You continue to be protected under the provisions of the Canadian Code of Practice for Consumer Debit Card Services.

For more information about chip and PIN technology and Interac Flash, please review the Frequently Asked Questions.

 

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You are on: Frequently Asked Questions

Chip technology and Interac Flash is the next evolution of electronic payments, helping to make an already safe debit card payment system even more secure and convenient. Below are answers to some questions you may have about this new technology.

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You are on: Chip

  1. What is a chip card and what are the benefits?
  2. Why are chip cards more secure?
  3. What information does a chip card contain? Is the information private?
  4. If chip cards are more secure, does that mean my existing magnetic stripe RBC Client Card is not secure?
  5. Will my RBC chip Client Card still contain a magnetic stripe?
  6. I've heard of chip cards being compromised, is this true?
  7. How will making a purchase with my RBC chip Client Card work?
  8. When can I expect to receive my RBC chip Client Card?
  9. Can I request my new RBC chip Client Card right now?
  10. Can I keep my current RBC Client Card if I don't like chip?
  11. Will Business Deposit-Only Agent Cards need to be converted to chip?
  12. Where do I get a PIN for my RBC chip Client Card?
  13. How can I change my PIN or have it reset because I've forgotten it?
  14. If I'm travelling outside of Canada, will my current RBC magnetic stripe Client Card still work?
  15. How will my RBC chip Client Card transactions work outside of Canada?
  16. Is chip technology available for my credit card?
  17. Where can I get more information about chip technology?
  18. Who can I contact if I have questions or concerns about my RBC chip Client Card?
 

1. What is a chip card and what are the benefits?

A chip card is a credit or debit card with a microchip embedded in it. The chip is encrypted and provides enhanced security and protection to help guard against fraud. When used at stores or restaurants with chip-enabled terminals and at ATMs, the system validates the chip and the personal identification number (PIN), helping to ensure a more secure transaction. The addition of a PIN provides an extra layer of security above and beyond the chip as only you know your PIN.

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2. Why are chip cards more secure?

The enhanced security of a chip card comes from the chip itself as it is encrypted and employs a range of security features and measures that work in concert with each other to create a multi-layered defense against card fraud. When chip cards and a personal identification number (PIN) are used at chip-enabled terminals, the transaction system identifies the cardholder through the chip and the PIN. The enhanced security features of chip cards make them virtually impossible to replicate and therefore less likely to be a target for criminals.

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3. What information does a chip card contain? Is the information private?

Chip cards contain an embedded microchip that holds the same information that is currently contained on a magnetic stripe card (card number), which is also the same information that is embossed directly on the card. Chip cards also contain added risk parameters and security keys to enable personal identification number (PIN) transactions and to provide added protection. We employ a strict privacy policy and are committed to protecting client information. For more information about our privacy policy, please visit the RBC Privacy Policy website (opens new window).

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4. If chip cards are more secure, does that mean my existing magnetic stripe RBC Client Card is not secure?

Chip cards represent the latest advancements in card payment security. They make an already safe payment system even more secure. In addition, we have been very successful in protecting cardholders by reducing debit card fraud through continuous upgrades to our fraud detection systems. With one of the lowest fraud rates in the industry, we will continue our current fraud prevention practices to ensure clients are protected when using a chip Client Card. In addition, you continue to be protected under the provisions of the Canadian Code of Practice for Consumer Debit Card Services.

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5. Will my RBC chip Client Card still contain a magnetic stripe?

It will take time for all merchants, including stores and restaurants, to be set up with chip technology. To ensure your RBC chip Client Card continues to be accepted everywhere (including outside Canada), it will contain a magnetic stripe in addition to the chip. You can expect to make two types of transactions with your RBC chip Client Card for some time to come:

Swipe and PIN – the magnetic stripe is swiped and validated by your personal identification number (PIN) just as it is today.
Insert and PIN – the card is inserted and left in the terminal as you input your PIN for validation.

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6. I've heard of chip cards being compromised, is this true?

At this time, we are not aware of the chip being compromised on any chip cards. Any issues that have arisen have been due to the magnetic stripe that is also on the card. For the time being, all RBC chip Client Cards must also include a magnetic stripe to ensure continued acceptance at locations that have not converted to chip technology. Without the magnetic stripe, cards could not be used at non-chip-enabled terminals. We maintain aggressive fraud prevention practices to reduce card fraud and to ensure clients are protected. In addition, you continue to be protected under the provisions of the Canadian Code of Practice for Consumer Debit Card Services.

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7. How will making a purchase with my RBC chip Client Card work?

When you make a transaction at a chip-enabled terminal with your RBC chip Client Card, you're in control. The process is quick and easy and your card should never leave your sight:

  1. Rather than swiping your card, you will insert it into the terminal and leave it there for the entire transaction. (Removing the card before completion will terminate the transaction.)
  2. You will follow the prompts on the screen and enter your personal identification number (PIN) as you do today.
  3. When the transaction is complete, you will remove your card when prompted and wait for the receipt.

If the store or restaurant does not yet have a chip-enabled terminal, your card will be swiped and you will enter your PIN as you do today. Please visit the Chip Technology page for more detail.

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8. When can I expect to receive my RBC chip Client Card?

RBC Client Cards with chip have been issued since 2008. It has taken several years to convert existing Client Cards to chip Client Cards. If you have not received your card, it is likely that your contact information is out of date. Please call or visit your branch to update your contact information and to ensure that you don't miss out on important communications.

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9. Can I request my new RBC chip Client Card right now?

Yes. You can visit your nearest branch or call us at 1-800-769-2511. Business Banking clients can contact us at 1-800-769-2520 to request an RBC Royal Bank Business Client Card with chip technology.

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10. Can I keep my current RBC Client Card if I don't like chip?

No. Effective January 1, 2013, personal and business non-chip Client Cards will no longer be accepted at any ATMs in Canada. Temporary Client Cards will continue to work for 90 days from the date the card was issued.

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11. Will Business Deposit-Only Agent Cards need to be converted to chip?

No. Deposit-Only Agent Cards will not be impacted and will continue to have a magnetic stripe. However, the RBC Royal Bank Business Client Card associated with the account must be chip-enabled.

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12. Where do I get a PIN for my RBC chip Client Card?

If you do not already have a personal identification number (PIN) on your existing Client Card, please visit your nearest RBC branch (opens new window) to set your confidential PIN.

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13. How can I change my PIN or have it reset because I've forgotten it?

If you'd like to change your personal identification number (PIN) or if you've forgotten your PIN, simply visit an RBC branch (opens new window) to have it reset. For your protection, please remember to bring 2 valid pieces of identification with you.

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14. If I'm travelling outside of Canada, will my current RBC magnetic stripe Client Card still work?

Yes. While many countries in Europe, Asia and Latin America have already moved to or will be moving to chip and PIN technology, they also still accept magnetic stripe cards as a reliable and secure form of payment. Your RBC chip Client Card will continue to be accepted everywhere as it will contain a magnetic stripe in addition to the chip. To ensure ultimate convenience and accessibility to funds when travelling outside of Canada, you should carry more than one form of payment, such as your Client Card and a credit card, traveller's cheques or small amounts of local currency. This will help in the event that you encounter potential service disruptions like power outages or system problems. For additional information about travelling and your finances, please visit RBC Travel Essentials.

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15. How will my RBC chip Client Card transactions work outside of Canada?

Client Card transactions will work the same way as magnetic stripe transactions do today. At merchants who subscribe to the NYCE network in the U.S., you will swipe your card and enter your personal identification number (PIN). At U.S. and international ATMs on the PLUS‡ Network, you will insert your card and enter your PIN.

When travelling, you should consider having a four-digit PIN as some terminals and ATMs overseas will not accept a PIN with more than four digits.

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16. Is chip technology available for my credit card?

All RBC credit cards are now being issued with chip and PIN technology and existing cards will be replaced based on expiry date. If you do not currently have a chip and PIN card, you can expect to receive one when your current card expires.

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17. Where can I get more information about chip technology?

Please visit the following websites for more information about chip and PIN technology:

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18. Who can I contact if I have questions or concerns about my RBC chip Client Card?

For questions or concerns about your RBC chip Client Card, please contact us at 1-800-769-2511. Business Banking clients can contact us at 1-800-769-2520.

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You are on: INTERAC Flash

  1. What is Interac Flash?
  2. What if I don't want the Interac Flash feature on my card?
  3. Can the information on my card be intercepted during the transaction?
  4. How do I track my Interac Flash transactions? Will I receive a receipt?
  5. Is my transaction still safe if I don't enter a PIN?
  6. Where can I get more information about Interac Flash?
  7. Will my card work as soon as I get it?
  8. Will my Business Client Card be Flash-enabled?
  9. Where is Interac Flash currently accepted?
  10. Where can I get more information about Interac Flash?
  11. Is contactless payment also available on RBC credit cards?
  12. Who can I contact if I have questions or concerns about my RBC Client Card?
 

1. What is Interac Flash?

The new Interac Flash enhancement increases the functionality of your chip Client Card by allowing you to pay for smaller purchases without having to insert your card or enter a PIN. Now, when you use your chip Client Card, you will have the ability to make both regular Interac Debit transactions or Interac Flash transactions.

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2. What if I don't want the Interac Flash feature on my card?

You can call the number on the back of your Client Card or visit a branch near you to deactivate the Interac Flash feature. You will not be reissued a new card, but will continue to use the one mailed to you.

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3. Can the information on my card be intercepted during the transaction?

The data that passes from the card to the card reader cannot be used to conduct fraudulent transactions or ID theft. The card only contains information related to payment codes for debit transactions. The card does not contain personal or other financial information.

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4. How do I track my Interac Flash transactions? Will I receive a receipt?

Merchants will provide you with a receipt for an Interac Flash transaction, just as they do for a regular Interac Debit transaction. Also, the transactions will be itemized on your bank statement and in RBC Royal Bank Online Banking.

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5. Is my transaction still safe if I don't enter a PIN?

Yes, Interac Flash is a safe and faster way to pay for smaller purchases. There are a number of anti-fraud measures in place to protect you and your card, such as transaction limits and being prompted to insert your card and enter a PIN after every $200 in contactless transactions you make with your Client Card. You are also protected under the Interac Zero Liability Policy.

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6. When can I expect to receive my new RBC Client Card with Interac Flash?

Going forward, RBC Royal Bank Client Cards will include Interac Flash; along with both chip and PIN technology. Not all cards will be replaced at the same time and the process will take a few years to complete given the vast number of cards currently in the marketplace. This is an automatic process for non-chip card holders and there is no action required on your part. Until then, continue using your current RBC Client Card with confidence, just as you do today.

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7. Will my card work as soon as I get it?

Yes, although the contactless feature will not be activated until you make an initial chip insertion transaction and use your PIN. This ensures that you are the one receiving the card. Contactless limits will be preset for each category, but can be changed by calling the number on the back of your Client Card.

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8. Will my Business Client Card be Flash-enabled?

Yes, Interac Flash is available on all Client Cards, except the Cub Card.

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9. Where is Interac Flash currently accepted?

Interac Flash is new and merchants are signing on every day. For latest updates to merchant details, please visit www.interac.ca.

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10. Where can I get more information about Interac Flash?

Please visit the following website for more information about Interac Flash:

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11. Is contactless payment also available on RBC credit cards?

Yes, RBC Royal Bank offers RBC credit card cardholders an easier way to pay for small everyday purchases with Visa payWave and MasterCard PayPass. Visit the RBC credit card contactless technology page for more information.

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12. Who can I contact if I have questions or concerns about my RBC Client Card?

For questions or concerns about your RBC Chip or Interac Flash Client Card, please contact us at: 1-800-769-2511 (Personal Client Card) or 1-800-769-2520 (Business Client Card)

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‡ Trademark of Interac Inc. Used under licence.