Originally Posted by
JEFFJAGUAR
As a former US President once said, "It depends on your definition of real chip and pin card." We and the banks seem to be arguing at cross purposes. So in the interests of clarity, let's try to agree on our definitions.
Suggestion. A real chip and pin card is one with pin verification as the #1 priority (offline or online doesn't really matter). A card with primary chip and signature verification perhaps called a hybrid card for short? (which is what I've been doing). A card without pin capabilities such as the Amex cards issued to US residents is chip and signature? (although even then there might be some questions as some cards that are advertised as pure chip and signature do work with the online cash advance pin in some pos situtions).
Any other suggestions so we can talk the same language?
How about C&P = (or "real" chip and pin) chip and pin with pin priority (i.e. at any terminal that accepts a pin, you will be prompted to enter it),
C&P/s = chip and pin with signature priority (i.e. if the terminal allows a signature you will not be prompted for a pin, but if it requires a PIN, you'll have to enter it)
C&S = chip enabled, signature required (i.e. if the terminal requires a pin you won't be able to use it, only signature enabled terminals will accept your card, but they do read the chip so there is some measure of security against card cloning).
Hope I got the technology correct!