February 1, 2006

The major banks were today urged to help more with the introduction of Chip and Pin for credit card use.

It is feared that that vulnerable consumers who include the elderly and disabled may find it hard to memorise their PIN (Personal Identification Number) when making purchases with their credit card.

The National Consumer Council (NCC) have asked banks to step up their information campaign and make sure everyone knows about the February 14th deadline.

Claire Whyley, who is Deputy Director of Policy at the NCC, said, "A year ago we urged the banks to launch an information campaign and improve bank staff awareness of the chip and pin alternatives,"

"We are really disappointed that banks haven't taken their responsibilities to vulnerable customers more seriously. Three million people could find themselves high and dry at the checkout."

Many consumers are unaware that they can opt out of the Chip and Pin scheme and use a signature by using unchipped or a debit card.

Chip and Pin has revolutionised the fight against credit card fraud and has been a successful deterrent.