why does amex need zip code?

[E150GT]

Jst curious but sometimes when I use my amex green I am asked my zip code. I have really only seen this at pay at the pump with other cards but with my amex some merchants like CVS ask for it to. Whats up with that?

[chnceit]

Its for Fraud protection. 

Authorized User Verification

When you use your American Express Card at some retail or online stores, you may be asked to provide your billing zip code or "CID" (Card Identification Digits). American Express compares that information with the zip code or CID on file to help confirm that it is you using the Card. This information is for security purposes only. It will not be used for marketing purposes, and is not retained by the merchant.

https://www.americanexpress.com/us/content/fraud-protection-center/purchase-protection.html?vgnextch...

[thom02099]

Personally, I like it when credit cards prompt for a ZIP code or the security code.  Means that they have that extra level of security built in.  If the card is stolen, it's not likely that the thief is going to know the victim's ZIP code. 

[snowkitty]

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@thom02099 wrote:

Personally, I like it when credit cards prompt for a ZIP code or the security code.  Means that they have that extra level of security built in.  If the card is stolen, it's not likely that the thief is going to know the victim's ZIP code. 

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Me too....I always worry when it don't ask for one!

[navigatethis12]

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@thom02099 wrote:

Personally, I like it when credit cards prompt for a ZIP code or the security code.  Means that they have that extra level of security built in.  If the card is stolen, it's not likely that the thief is going to know the victim's ZIP code. 

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I don't mind zip code, but I have no idea what the security card is on most of the cards I have. I remember maybe 2 of them. I wouldn't even be able to give the full card number of most since I never look at it.

[thom02099]

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@navigatethis12 wrote:

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@thom02099 wrote:

Personally, I like it when credit cards prompt for a ZIP code or the security code.  Means that they have that extra level of security built in.  If the card is stolen, it's not likely that the thief is going to know the victim's ZIP code. 

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I don't mind zip code, but I have no idea what the security card is on most of the cards I have. I remember maybe 2 of them. I wouldn't even be able to give the full card number of most since I never look at it.

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You may be thinking of the PIN.  I don't remember most of the PINs that I have, when they are included with a card.  The security number is the 3-digit number on the back of the card where one signs, or in the case of AMEX the 4-digit number on the front of the card in the right center area just above the card number.   Personally, I prefer the ZIP code as the security feature of choice.   

[navigatethis12]

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@thom02099 wrote:

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You may be thinking of the PIN.  I don't remember most of the PINs that I have, when they are included with a card.  The security number is the 3-digit number on the back of the card where one signs, or in the case of AMEX the 4-digit number on the front of the card in the right center area just above the card number.   Personally, I prefer the ZIP code as the security feature of choice.   

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I meant the security code. I actually thought people meant when the cashier asks you the zip code and types it in themselves. What I meant was if the cashier asked me for the security code after they take the card, I would not be able to answer.

[thom02099]

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@navigatethis12 wrote:

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@thom02099 wrote:

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You may be thinking of the PIN.  I don't remember most of the PINs that I have, when they are included with a card.  The security number is the 3-digit number on the back of the card where one signs, or in the case of AMEX the 4-digit number on the front of the card in the right center area just above the card number.   Personally, I prefer the ZIP code as the security feature of choice.   

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I meant the security code. I actually thought people meant when the cashier asks you the zip code and types it in themselves. What I meant was if the cashier asked me for the security code after they take the card, I would not be able to answer.

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Wow!  Really?  Never heard of being asked the security code, but thanks for the heads up on that!  One more thing to be aware of with credit cards, I guess.