No April Fool's Joke on ATMs

MasterCard International said it has ordered all ATM switch providers to turn off machines not compliant with the new Triple DES encryption standards next April 1, in order to ensure protection of sensitive cardholder information during the transaction process. All credit unions and banks tied into the MasterCard or VISA networks are required to upgrade their ATMs to Triple DES compliance by April 1. Triple DES-for Triple Data Encryption Standard-will replace the Single DES systems currently used by ATMs to protect user PIN numbers from fraudulent activity. Credit unions are currently working with ATM servicers to either upgrade their hardware or software, while others will be required to replace outdated machines altogether.