Stores Can't Ask For Customer ZIP Codes: CA Supreme Court

NBC Los Angeles ^ | February 10, 2011 | Scott Weber

[EveningStar]

Customers who use their credit cards at stores can no longer be asked for their ZIP code, the California Supreme Court ruled Thursday.

[EveningStar]

SoCal Ping!

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[Larry Lucido]

I get asked for stupid zip codes when I’m paying cash, too. I always say it’s “private.”

[kbennkc]

So the store can refuse to take the card, but at least his secret zip code is safe.

[GOPsterinMA]

I give a fake one.

[rawhide]

Well, can they ask for their driver’s license? The zip code is written on it, at least on mine. I hate it when they ask for my ID when using a credit card. They claim it is for my security. But I guess I like my privacy more.

[EveningStar]

ping

[max americana]

I’m in L.A. and just say 90210 to shut them up and get my stuff outa there. No biggie.

[FlingWingFlyer]

I’m glad the black robed buffoons at the CA Supreme “court” had the time to take this up.

[DBrow]

“I give a fake one.”

Me too- 01776, the revolutionary ZIP

[ZGuy]

On the other hand . . .

This was considered a protection against fraudulent use of stolen credit cards. If you couldn't provide the zip code of the credit card's billing address, you couldn't use the card. You see this at many/most gas stations when you pay at the pump. This ruling may make it easier for thieves to use stolen cards now.

[television is just wrong]

nice

[television is just wrong]

nice

[rawhide]

Seems I remember reading somewhere where they could not ask for an ID and I remember years ago while at WalMart, I refused and they caused a stink about it. I told them no they cannot see it. They can keep their junk. Finally, a manager stepped in, and okay-ed the transaction without me showing it to them. Nowadays, I show it to them. Still do not like it.

[Carling]

I suppose I’m not seeing why I should be outraged about being asked for my ZIP code. I thought that information helped private business owners know where they should spend their advertising dollars.

Seems like an odd thing to complain about, at least in terms of advancing capitalism. Perhaps I’m wrong, though.

[pollywog]

LOLOLOLOLOLOL!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

I needed a good laugh tonight!

[calcowgirl]

I’ve always just made up a zip code - or given that of a friend/family member.

Of course, usually we shop at Safeway and the only way to get deals is to have one of those cards that has all your info on it. With all their tracking data, they probably know what we’re gonna buy before we buy it, LOL

That they sell that info to all sorts of folks, including political parties, is what ticks me off.

[silentreignofheroes]

Zip Codes?

BR549

[GOPsterinMA]

That’s actually the zip code for Sudbury, MA.

[calcowgirl]

While I’m thinking of it, will ya add me to that SoCal ping list, please?

Thanks!