evil credit card technology

iVillage Member
Registered: 03-27-2003
evil credit card technology
4
Mon, 06-06-2005 - 8:09am

I just read a news article stating that Chase is going to make credit card purchases easier with a system that allows you just to wave your card in front of a reader. It is being test marketed in Georgia and is aimed (for now) at movie theaters, fast food, convience stores. It is supposed to help speed things up, so you do not have to fumble around in your wallet for your card. Sounds like a way to encourage impulse spending at places you would normally use cash. Also sounds ideal for theives who wouldn't even have to forge a signature.

Here is the link:
http://www.foxnews.com/story/0,2933,158616,00.html

Sandra

iVillage Member
Registered: 11-04-2004
Mon, 06-06-2005 - 8:12am
Gee, another way to make it more convenient to be in debt. Why dig in your purse for cash? There are twenty impatient people behind you in the line for popcorn at the movies. Just flash your card!!! Great..... I'll be keeping the one card I have left in the freezer and my kids away from the theater!!
Avatar for cl_beckymk
iVillage Member
Registered: 03-19-2003
Mon, 06-06-2005 - 8:32am

Sounds like Speedpass which they have had here for a while for I think it is Mobil gas stations.

iVillage Member
Registered: 12-12-2004
Tue, 06-07-2005 - 12:08am
Hi, Sandra. Waving cards in front of a scanner. That's like waving a red cape in front of a bull. Charge! That is way too tempting and dangerous. I know some of the fast food places are taking plastic. Of course, it would be a reality check to see how much you charged at those places, and then, cut up the plastic and go on diet. The new CC tactic? Making you pay more than their "minimum", oh, say, $125/month. Thanks for the info. WHiz.
Avatar for mahopac
iVillage Member
Registered: 07-24-1997
Tue, 06-07-2005 - 5:35pm

As far as the technology goes, it's very safe. Without going into details about how I know that, I can assure you it is.

However, I won't be using it. Cash is fine with me. I do have an EZ-Pass for tolls because I am not going to drive more just because I have an EZ-Pass!

Kelly