Clarien Bank has launched new hi-tech debit cards.

In a partnership with MasterCard, the bank has introduced industry standard EMV/chip technology.

The new cards also include MasterCard PayPass, a contactless tap-and-pay service and are also claimed to be more secure than old-style cards.

A spokesman for the bank said: “The new card also has enhanced security features enabling Clarien to monitor, detect and fight fraud on behalf of its customers at every step of the purchasing process.

“Delivered through the new EMV/chip technology, the card securely stores information on the EMV/chip technology, significantly increasing the difficulty of extracting the bank card’s information.”

The cards will also allow Clarien customers to use MasterCard services, including SecureCode, which offers more security when shopping online.

Clarien CEO Ian Truran said: “Providing clients with the greatest security possible has always been of utmost importance to us.

“With the pace of life rapidly changing, contactless payment is becoming the new norm and we are pleased to offer our clients the very latest in technology and security, providing continued peace of mind.

“The new enhanced debit card is aligned with our ongoing commitment to providing our clients with best-in-class services, bringing added functionality at no additional cost.”

The bank added that all debit cards issued under the Capital G name will be deactivated on Wednesday, September 30 at midnight.

And clients who PIN and activate their new Clarien cards by August 30 will be entered into a competition to win an Apple Watch.