AAA Introduction of Chip on AAA Credit Cards Will Benefit International Travelers

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Sep 10, 2012, 09:12 ET

New chip technology will increase acceptance and security of AAA credit cards for consumers traveling and spending abroad

ORLANDO, Fla., Sept. 10, 2012 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Americans traveling to international destinations have been challenged by the technology gap between magnetic stripe credit cards issued in the United States and chip-enabled cards widely accepted abroad. AAA, North America's largest leisure travel organization, announces the rollout of chip technology on its credit cards for current cardholders through our partner Bank of America.

"Chip-enabled cards will expand purchase options, add convenience and transaction security for Americans traveling abroad," said Siobhan O'Donnell, director, AAA Financial Services Sales and Marketing. "We are pleased to provide this new technology to cardholders which will enhance their international travel experiences."

Credit cards with chip technology, which is also known as EMV (EuroPayMasterCard Visa), are embedded with a microprocessor chip that encrypts and stores the account information. Many countries outside the United States have already converted from magnetic stripe to EMV chip technology.

AAA's new chip-enabled credit cards will continue to prompt customers to sign for transactions just as they would today. The cards also include the traditional magnetic stripe, which is used by U.S. merchants.

Current AAA credit cardholders are able to request the chip card option by calling the customer service number on the back of their card. Chip cards will be rolled out for new cardholders later this year. For more information visit AAA.com/creditcard.

As North America's largest motoring and leisure travel organization, AAA provides more than 53 million members with travel, insurance, financial and automotive related services. Since its founding in 1902, the not-for-profit, fully tax-paying AAA has been a leader and advocate for the safety and security of all travelers. AAA clubs can be visited on the Internet at AAA.com.

AAA news releases and broadcast-quality video are available at NewsRoom.AAA.com.

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SOURCE AAA