Republic Bank Introduces Chip and Pin for Secure Credit Card Transactions

Caption: Pictured is Ian De Souza, Managing Director and CEO Republic Bank (Barbados) Limited, presenting West Indies Cricket Team Captain Jason Holder with his new Chip and Pin Visa Credit Card. Looking on is Visa General Manager, Caribbean Sofia Antor.

Barbados, September 17th, 2015 – With a view to enhancing credit card security and services, Republic Bank today became the first local banking institution to introduce chip and pin technology to its suite of International Visa Classic, Gold, Platinum and Business credit cards.

Speaking during the launch event at The Clubhouse, Royal Westmoreland, St. James, General Manager, Retail Banking, Susan Torry said the Bank was pleased to introduce the new cards with up-to-date Chip and PIN technology, on behalf of its valued customers.

She said the new cards addressed important security concerns with regard to preventing counterfeiting and card fraud, and also came fully loaded with multiple features and benefits for customers.

“Our emphasis at Republic Bank continues to be on customer centricity and service, and this new suite of Republic Bank International Visa cards is in keeping with that focus. Today’s launch is indeed a fulfilment of our commitment to making sure that the needs of our customers remain central to the way we do business.” Mrs. Torry said.

Among some of the exciting features and benefits highlighted at the launch, the chip and pin enabled cards will provide customers with unmatched security through unique PIN authorisation and electronic validation of both card and cardholder, with no need for the cardholder’s signature.

Furthermore, all Republic Bank International Visa cardholders will benefit from a tiered Bonus Points on purchases, redeemable at any Visa location locally; this in addition to free travel accident insurance and access to cash at more than 840,000 Visa/Plus ATMs and banks worldwide.

Additional features and benefits available specifically to holders of the Visa Platinum Credit Card include, a year-round always-on personal concierge service for travel-related information, and free lifetime membership in Hertz #1 Club Gold International Car Rentals. Free auto rental insurance and travel medical assistance are also included on the Visa Platinum card.

“Chip and PIN cards have become the best-practice across today’s world of e-commerce, travel, hospitality, and business, and Republic Bank with this launch today, is once again taking the lead in embracing technology to deliver convenience and service to our customers,” said Mrs. Torry.

Republic Bank credit card customers also continue to benefit from interest free credit on outstanding balances settled by the statement due date; and global toll-free call assistance and emergency services including card replacement and cash delivery around-the-clock from anywhere in the world. In addition, customers who sign up for RepublicOnline can make card payments, pay bills, and view their credit card information at any time by logging into their secure Web portal.