Stores want your ZIP code because, combined with your name from your credit card, they can use it to find out other information about you from commercial databases, like your full mailing address. They may even sell the information to data brokers, who sell it to other marketers.
Why do stores take your ID for returns?
Stores will often ask you to show your driver’s license (or other government-issued ID) when you return a purchase and then record your information along with information about the returned items to help identify patterns of return fraud or abuse.
Why do stores ask for your name?
the stores are asking for the same information that can be had from the phonebook. Eyeman wrote: That’s exactly what they will do. Unless you don’t have any children, of course. Giving your personal information to any business or governmental authority when you don’t have to is a bad idea.
Why do I have to give personal details for a refund?
Sylvia asks: I often find that when I return an item to a shop for a refund I’m asked to fill in a form for the shop to keep. It asks for my printed name, my signature, my full address and sometimes my phone number. They say it’s to prove that the cashier did not take the money from the till.
Can a store give you a refund if you have changed your mind?
Some stores make a policy of giving refunds for purchases even if you have changed your mind and they usually declare that prominently; stores that don’t do refunds usually keep quiet about it.
When to use your name and address when calling customer service?
Using ‘name’ and ‘address’ as security answers When you call a customer service number about your account, often the first question they’ll ask is “Who am I speaking with?” They may also ask you to verify your address or another question to verify your identity. It’s part courtesy, part security to see if it’s really you calling.
What can a thief do with your name and address?
With a name and address, a thief can change your address via U.S. Postal Service and redirect mail to their address of choice, Velasquez says. With access to your financial mail, the thief may intercept bank statements and credit card offers or bills, then order new checks and credit cards. This is a form of mail theft.
