In order to place priority on greater security and increased privacy, Bahrain’s pioneer in retail and commercial banking, BBK is planning the deactivation of its magnetic stripe Debit Cards commencing 26th April 2010 in favour of their EMV Smart Chip Debit Cards. Deactivation will proceed in stages starting from that date.

This follows BBK’s previous announcements of the launch and distribution of their new EMV compliant Visa Electron Debit Card powered by Smart Chip technology.

Customers who have received their EMV Smart Chip Debit Cards are advised to activate them as soon as possible.Customers who have not yet received their new EMV Smart Chip Debit Cards should call 17207777 to enquire about their new card.

Given the new EMV Smart Chip Debit Card is equipped with security enhancements to reduce the number of fraudulent transactions, it is very important for customers to upgrade to a more secure option.