Pen or PIN

You probably find that when you use your Commonwealth Bank American Express Card, MasterCard® card or Visa card to purchase items at a store, you’re asked if you want to sign or enter a PIN.

What’s the difference between signing and using a PIN?

Pen: Signing is the traditional way to pay for your purchases. You’re given a receipt, which you sign, and the signature on your card is checked against the one on your receipt. If everything matches up, the transaction is complete.

PIN: Using a PIN on your credit card is no different to the way you use a PIN on your keycard or debit card for transactions. It’s just an alternative form of identification to your signature.

When you run your card through the EFTPOS terminal, instead of pressing the ‘Credit’ button and signing, you enter your PIN and press ‘Enter’. The transaction is then electronically processed and if approved, you’re done.

If you are travelling overseas, you need to make sure you have a PIN before you leave as it may be required in some countries to complete transactions.

How do I get a PIN?

If you don’t already have a PIN on your credit card, you can create one easily by:

• Logging on to NetBank, selecting the Security tab, then My card PIN and follow the steps below:
  1. Select the card you want to create/change your PIN for
  2. Type and confirm your chosen PIN number
  3. If you are registered for NetCode SMS you will need to receive and enter a NetCode and then click Submit. If you are registered for a NetCode Token, simply click Submit.
  4. Your new PIN will be available for use immediately.
• Visit your nearest Commonwealth Bank branch with your credit card and additional forms of identification such as a drivers licence, passport or birth certificate, or
• Call 13 2221 and press 2 for card enquiries. Have your card number and phone banking password handy.

 

Remember to keep your PIN a secret

It’s important to keep your PIN a secret, just like with your keycard or debit card

• Don’t disclose your PIN to anyone or let anyone else use your card
• Always memorise your PIN. Don't write your PIN on your card or keep it in your wallet
• Don't choose a PIN that is easily identifiable (i.e. date of birth)
• Always take reasonable steps to keep your PIN a secret and your card safe
• We’ll never ask you to disclose your PIN