Debit card transactions are simpler than you might think. In fact, it can be summed up in three easy steps. First, your transaction is forwarded through a payment processor. Next, the processor routes the transaction to a debit network. Finally, that debit network sends the transaction to your bank/credit union, which verifies that you have the money to make the purchase before approving or denying the purchase.

This is the wonderful thing about debit: it’s the smart payment option for everyday purchases. That means it’s great for anything from picking up your morning coffee to taking that special someone out on a date.

Recent research from Cambridge University suggests that most PINs are not as secure as people think. One reason for this is because, of the more than 1,200 people surveyed, more than 50% admitted to sharing their PINs with others. The research also concluded that about 1-in-11 PINs is relatively easy to guess. We have more details on the research here.

Debit cards are more similar to cash than credit cards because purchases made with debit use the existing funds in your checking account, rather than borrowing money from a bank that you’ll repay later.

Neural networks monitor your spending patterns to determine unusual activity. If your typical purchases include items from your local grocery store, noodle house and online music stores – and charges suddenly appear for large cash withdrawals and expensive jewelry thousands of miles away – those unusual transactions will trip an alert. Most financial institutions will call you before authorizing additional purchases.

Dual-use cards are both signature and PIN-enabled for your convenience. They are great for every day purchases, from ordering take out food to buying movie tickets. Whether you sign or use your PIN, the money is still debited from your checking account.

It can be tempting to hide your PIN in an easy place for you to find it later. However, you shouldn’t risk your financial security by hiding your PIN in a place where others might find it. The best option is to memorize it or use one of these techniques to help you remember it.

Debit direct transactions allow you to make automatic debit payments from your checking account, keeping your payment schedule regulated. Debit direct can be a smart and simple way to manage your bills.

We do NOT recommend using another online password as your PIN. If someone guessed that password or if a website was hacked, your financial security would be at risk. Instead, choose a set of numbers you don’t use in other places and memorize it. For even more security, change your PIN frequently.

When you’re asked if you want use your card as “debit” or “credit,” you’re really being asked whether you want to complete the transaction by signing the receipt or entering your PIN. Either way, the money is debited from your checking account and not borrowed from the bank.