Never Give Stores Your ZIP Code. Here's Why

Forbes ^ | June 19, 2013 | Adam Tanner

[katana]

Zip code for the campus of Ohio State University: 43210

[katana]

I made an error once typing my zip code into a gas pump keyboard after sliding my credit card. It refused to operate. The idea is it prevents people from using a stolen credit card. Thieves are not likely to know the zip code of the person from whom they just lifted the card and one of the first places such people go and use the card are filling stations.

[BenLurkin]

I’ve always said 90210.

[PeevedPatriot]

I wonder what they do if you tell them you don’t have a phone

Don't know. If you just tell them "no" they won't make the sale, even it's a cash sale.

[PeevedPatriot]

867-5309 that is the one I use in cases like that.

LOL. Do you sing too, or just matter of factly state the number? Thanks for making me laugh!

[ladyjane]

There’s a store near me that refuses the sale if you won’t provide your phone number.

What fun it would be to load up about $100 worth of goods, take them to the register, refuse to give your phone number and walk out.

[Sacajaweau]

I use cash. Giving them my zip is no big deal for me.

[grania]

My “home” address on my Garmin is the town’s police department.

[PeevedPatriot]

I have twice abandoned the sale at the register. It is fun to watch their expression. Another time I needed something that I couldn't find elsewhere, so I told the guy I'd give him an incorrect #, then I gave him garbage numbers. He wasn't very happy but accepted it. I'm glad I did that because I don't get their junk circulars in the mail any more.

[Professional Engineer]

My zip code is 60609.

Just like the Spiegel Catalog.

[sarasmom]

Yes, it would indeed be denied if you entered the wrong zip code at the pump using a CC.

(happened to me a few times)

[verga]

I say it with the correct area code very slowly, have not been questioned yet.

[Rio]

I have experienced that, too at fuel pumps. I will try entering a bad ZIP to see if it has an effect.

[John Galt's cousin]

LOL!

I laughed so hard I spewed my coffee.

Now where is that portable electric keyboard cleaning device, with LED light and key chain?

[csivils]

Growing up as a child in Austin, I heard the Mr. Gatti’s pizza commercial hundreds if not thousands of times.

Dail 4 5 9 - twenty two twenty two and get a mr Gatti’s pizza delivered. Just 4 5 9 - twenty two twenty two...

Area code 512.

I had no idea at the time how useful it would be to have a single phone number I can give to people who shouldn’t ask. I called it a few years back, and 20+ years later... mr Gatti’s is still there. I hope they appreciate all my “referrals”. Funny thing is, no one in Houston recognizes the number.... cept my kids, of course :) Second generation Gatti referals!

[dalereed]

I use it at a gas station and if you give a zip code that doesn't correspond to the address of your card the card is rejected.

They check it with the CC company before authorizing it's use.

[BwanaNdege]

Now where is that portable electric keyboard cleaning device, with LED light and key chain?

20% OFF! With this Coupon! Offer expires 6/30/13! At least 6 of each item in stock at ALL Stores!

[IYAS9YAS]

No, it is because if you don’t give the correct zip code associated with the credit card, then it could prove that the credit card does not belong to you.

What I meant was, they swipe your card, catch the data on a skimming reader - then get your zip code, then they get to buy gas with your card number and zip.

[IYAS9YAS]

My address? Why it’s 1061 W. Addison Chicago, IL 60609. I wonder what the Cubs do with all those Radio Shack circulars.

Have a nice day Elwood.