Your PIN: Top secret!

Using your Desjardins Access Card at the ATM or for paying for your purchases is super convenient! But remember, it's up to you to take care of your card and keep your PIN confidential! They're the master keys to your savings!

Secret code
Don't mess with the ATM

Always keep your PIN (personal identification number) to yourself. To keep your number confidential, here are a few tips to remember:

1. Your debit card is like the key to your account. Never lend it to anyone! Keep it in a safe place when you're not using it.
2. To use your card, you need to have a PIN. It's your electronic signature—proof that you're the one using your card. Memorize your PIN and don't write it down anywhere—especially not on your card or a piece of paper in your wallet. That way, nobody can find out what it is.
3. When you choose your PIN, don't choose numbers that correspond to your address, date of birth, phone number, or other combinations that fraud artists can easily figure out. If you lose your card and your PIN can be easily cracked, you could be held responsible for transactions made in your accounts by the fraud artists.
4. Don't give out your PIN—it's for your eyes only. No one, not even a storekeeper, police officer or financial institution, has the right to ask you for it.
5. Only do your ATM transactions when you feel completely secure. If you notice someone or something that seems suspect, wait until later or go to another ATM.
6. To avoid prying eyes, use your hand or your body to shield the keypad while you key in your PIN at the ATM or in a store.
7. Once you've completed your transaction, don't forget your card and your transaction slip.
8. If you withdraw funds at the ATM, count your money and put it away immediately.
9. You must advise your financial institution right away if your card is lost or stolen, or if the ATM holds it back. If you lose your card, contact Desjardins at 1-800-361-5121.
10. Theft at ATMs is rare. But if you ever witness a robbery or are a victim yourself, think of your own safety first. Contact your caisse and the police to tell what happened.

Fraud is a very serious offence. Outwitting an ATM may sound fun and harmless, but it's anything but. If you're charged with fraud, the police will get involved and you could end up paying a major fine, doing prison time and being saddled with a criminal record. Money matters are no joke.

Click the Interac Association logo to obtain advice for consumers and storekeepers and read the FAQ.