‘Smart cards’ are still a mystery

REGARDING James Gilden’s article “New ‘Chip and PIN’ Credit May Cause Confusion Overseas” [Travel Insider, July 9], I called Citi Card since we are leaving on a three-week trip to Sweden, Finland and Russia next week. I had requested new cards two weeks ago and received them. At the time, I had inquired about “smart cards,” and they seemed to know nothing about them.

After reading the article, I called again. After being transferred to several representatives, I finally got someone who was able to minimally answer my question. They said that I would have to apply for another account to get a “smart card.” I am able to use my existing account but may have to call the company during the trip to verify my charges.

Your article was helpful for the future, but the card companies don’t seem to be too informed.

LINDA KEAGLE

Upland