Banking and Insurance: Debit cards

Debit cards are widely accepted and are a popular form of payment in Canada. They are a safe, convenient way to pay for purchases directly from your bank account. However, you should always be careful when using your debit card. Never give your personal identification number (PIN) to anyone. Cover the PIN pad when you enter your PIN at an automated banking machine (ABM) or a point-of-sale terminal. And never let your debit card out of your sight when you make a transaction.

If you do become a victim of debit card fraud, the Canadian Code of Practice for Consumer Debit Card Services is a voluntary code that outlines consumers' and the financial industry's responsibilities, which help to protect you when you use debit card services in Canada. To view the debit card code, click here.