Contactless Chip Cards

Enhanced Security for your Debit Card

1st Capital Bank, a division of Santa Cruz County Bank, issues debit cards with contactless chip technology. The embedded computer chip provides more security and wider international acceptance.

A microchip embedded in the card adds a new layer of protection against fraud for purchases made at the point of sale. Information programmed into the chip is personalized for your account and each transaction generates a unique code, adding an extra safeguard against unauthorized use and counterfeiting.

These cards are already in wide use around the world and are now the standard in the U.S.

Follow these steps to use your card at a Contactless terminal.

Look for the contactless symbol on the payment terminal. Tap your card to the front of the terminal. Wait for a beep or green light before removing your card.  You can put your card away now - you won't need it again.  Follow any instructions on the screen (you might be asked to sign or to enter your PIN).

What if a merchant isn't using a contactless terminal yet?

Your transaction will be processed following the normal insert chip, or swipe method. Contactless cards will continue to have the magnetic stripe on the back as well as the EMV Chip.

Online or Phone Purchases

Contactless cards will not change the way payments are made online or by telephone.

At an ATM

The process is essentially the same as at a merchant. You may tap your card at a contactless enabled terminal or insert your card in the ATM. Follow the prompts on the screen. Depending on the type of ATM, you might be prompted to re-insert your card.  A PIN is needed for ATM transactions.

How do I get a contactless card?

You can request a debit card with contactless technology by calling a Customer Service Representative at any of our branch locations.

Branch Locations

How am I protected?

All issued cards come with protections against unauthorized transactions. In the event a card is stolen, lost or fraudulently used in a store or online. It is important that cardholders promptly report a lost or stolen card or any suspicious transactions. Refer to the Bank's Electronic Funds Transfers – Your Rights and Responsibilities disclosure for more information on liability and reporting requirements for unauthorized transactions. For more information, please see 1st Capital Bank's EFT Transfers - Rights and Responsibilities disclosure.