Fleet and Compaq Combine Smart Card Technologies to Create Integrated On-Line Purchasing, Security for Consumers - Brief Article

Information Superhighways Newsletter, July, 2001

Fleet Credit Card Services, a subsidiary of FleetBoston Financial, has entered into a technology agreement with Compaq Computer Corp. to offer Fleet's newest Fusion smart Visa credit card with Compaq's latest Presario 5000 and 7000 Series desktop PCs featuring an innovative Smart Credit Card Internet Keyboard.

Fleet's new, red Fusion smart Visa card, coupled with the Compaq Smart Credit Card Internet Keyboard, provides consumers the first integrated smart card and reader solution, which can result in increased security, convenience, and value when using the card. Fleet was the first issuer to bring smart Visa credit cards to consumers when it launched the Fusion smart Visa card in September 2000.

The new Fusion card is powered by a 32K microprocessor chip pre-loaded with three applications -- payment, secure access, and loyalty programs. The Fusion smart Visa card can also access Fleet's on-line account management, allowing customers to pay their bills, track purchases, set account alerts, request balance transfers, and more. Fusion customers can also enroll in the Fusion Rewards Program and will be able shop at major participating on-line merchants and receive up to 15 percent cash back.