The list of big card issuers that has begun issuing more cardswith embedded computer chips has grown again with the news thatBank of America has decided to start offering the cards to itscardholders that travel overseas often.

“The new chip-enabled cards will improve convenience and security ofcustomers' transactions when traveling abroad,” said Consumer andSmall Business Products Executive Susan Faulkner. “We want ourcustomers to have the best possible experience while makingpurchases with their credit cards anywhere in the world.”

The bank will include the chip technology in all newly issuedMerrill Lynch credit cards, U.S. Trust Accolades, BankAmericardTravel Rewards, BankAmericard Privileges and VirginAtlantic travel credit cards.

The bank also will upgrade existing customers in these cardprograms who have been identified as international travelers, thecompany said.

In addition, the chip will be an optional feature thatcardholders can request for the following credit card programs:BankAmericard Cash Rewards, BankAmericard Power Rewards,BankAmericard, AAA Members Rewards, NEA, Asiana Airlines, AlaskaAirlines, Hawaiian Airlines, Royal Caribbean and Norwegian CruiseLines.

The move is significant because market observers have said thatmore issuers nationwide will begin moving toward issuingchip-embedded cards, which are more expensive to issue, only afterlarge issuers begin to make them more widely available.

Several credit unions also have begun offering the EMV cards.