SHAZAM will conduct a pilot program where interested SHAZAM financial institutions can participate in testing the latest in Internet PIN debit technology. The pilot program will help gauge consumer acceptance of using a debit card with a PIN when making online purchases.

"We are always seeking new and innovative ways for our community financial institutions to effectively compete in the market," said Mike Hollinger, President and CEO of SHAZAM.

With the PaySecure software, consumers enter their PIN on a graphical PIN-pad at the merchant checkout, and only need their existing debit card and PIN to complete the transaction. There are no hardware devices, passwords, enrollment, or redirection to another website for payment.

"PaySecure is one of those rare emerging payment methods that satisfy the needs of consumers, merchants, and financial institutions," said Ashish Bahl, CEO of Acculynk. "PaySecure helps issuers retain and grow their debit revenue stream, merchants decrease transaction processing expenses, and consumers reduce signature-based debit card fraud. We are pleased that SHAZAM recognizes the value PaySecure brings and has chosen to pilot our service."

SHAZAM is the fifth EFT network to publicly announce an agreement with Acculynk. "Interest in PaySecure has only increased as consumer payment preferences shift to debit," said Bahl. "External market factors have made our value proposition even more compelling, particularly to financial institutions, networks, and merchants seeking a way to leverage this growth in debit card usage."

"As we've done for 33 years, SHAZAM will evaluate and support emerging technology that makes sense for community financial institutions," stated Hollinger. "Their needs continue to be our primary focus."