You need to key in your PIN at the time of sale. These PIN-based debit cards can only be used at merchants that are equipped with online card processing terminals attached with a special device for keying in your PIN.
Signature
You sign a receipt for the purchase, as you would with a credit card. Signature debit cards can be used at merchants both with online card processing terminals and those with offline terminals.
Some debit cards are designed to work with a PIN only, others can be used with either a PIN or a signature. Cards that can work with the signature method may offer more flexibility, especially when dealing with merchants who do not have the equipment needed to process PIN transactions. Check with your local financial institutions which types of debit cards are offered.
In either case, the funds are automatically deducted directly from your account. For both types of debit cards, you will need a PIN for cash withdrawal at ATM. Your bank may assign one to you when your card is issued.
