Is it possible to use mastercard and visa without a pin number? The system is changing in the UK - moving from a signature to a 4 digit pin and I was wondering if it is still ok to sign for purchases made in stores?

thanks

Yes. We don't have a pin number system here. Sometimes they ask for your zip code though.

I think the ZIP code is a marketing tool rather than a security measure, so you can refuse, or just make one up. I have notice no trend at all towards increased PIN use in the US, they're used only on debit cards.

The zip code is indeed used as an "address verification" and not just for marketing. If I enter the incorrect zip code when I get gas, the card is declined!

Assuming you're using a Visa or MC credit card, and not one of their debit cards, you won't need a PIN. If it is a debit card than yes, you will need to enter a PIN.

Dan,
Both answers are correct regarding zip codes. Some retailers, particularly self-serve gas stations where there is no interaction between an employee and customer, might be using it for verification. However, equally often it is part of a customer profile that a retailer is trying to build.

I can see zip codes being used for security reasons, but I also agree that zip code requests at retailers are often used strictly for marketing. I don't live in the US, so when I shop there I use various zip codes of friends and family in different states and have never had a problem.

Most retailers who ask for my zip are asking whether I use cash or credit. Linens 'N' Things does it every time I shop there.

If a credit card machine is asking for it, it's for address verification!

Wow Dan, a bit passionate about this issue I see. As I'm rarely if ever asked for my zip code when buying gas, perhaps you've got some issue with your FICO score that you might want to look into.

I get asked to put in my ZIP when I buy gas with my AmEx card, but not if I use my MasterCard, so I figured this was some AmEx security issue. I'm on equally wonderful terms with both accounts.

Dan, when a store asks for your zip code it's for marketing/advertising. I get Bed, Bath & Beyond mailed ads in my zip code, but my parents (who live closer to the store) don't.

This zip code business has nothing to do with FICO scores. I get asked for my zip code when paying for gas with a credit card at some self-serve stations too.

Being asked for a zipcode when paying at the pump when getting gas is a new one to me. I've frequently used both Amex and Visa and have never been asked for this info.
The zipcode request at stores is strictly a marketing thing.

I use my Visa card for gas and I get asked for my zipcode about 75% of the time.

Well we have to put our zip code in when we buy gas using a Visa card. Maybe it depends on the station one uses. No zip code, the charge cannot be made.

And some retailers ask for zip for strickly marketing reasons.

Interesting how a thread that started with a tourist to Manhattan - the least likely place in the country where a tourist would actually need to buy gas - into a thread that's 90% about using a credit card to buy gas.

Ryan, I was thinking the same thing.

Sometimes stores will even ask for a phone number. Now THAT I refuse to give, even though it's probably just for marketing.

*Especially* if it's just for marketing!

I mean, if they're using it to see where their customer base is, and perhoaps open stores closer to where people live. They did that with Home Depot, which has just opened several locations in Manhattan, because they were getting so many zip codes from there.

Enough of this. I feel responsible for a day of drivel. All Sally wanted to know was whether she was going to need a pin number.