Mandatory PIN use would deter thefts of credit, debit cards

Recently the Everett Police Department issue a warning about a gang of pickpockets who have been working in the Puget Sound area (“Police seek well-traveled pickpockets after thefts here,” The Herald, March 22).

Police make practical suggestions for us to deter pickpockets. But, we can use some help in preventing pickpocketing. Most modern pickpockets are after credit and debit cards. Our banks have slowly converted most of our bank cards to use of a chip that encrypts the data exchange between the terminal and the bank, unlike swiping a magnetic strip. Most of us have chip and signature cards. Insert the card then sign. In the old days, shopkeepers would ask to check your signature with some ID. Has a shopkeeper checked your signature lately?

Much of the world now uses chip and pin. Insert the card, then you are asked to enter a four-digit pin number that helps the system verify that you are you. If someone other than you tries to make a purchase they do not have your pin. Therefore, the transaction will not go through.

While chip and pin cards may not be a magic bullet against credit card fraud, they do discourage card theft and counterfeiting. We should all be using chip and pin. Although American chip and signature cards may have a pin, it is only for cash advances. You need to call your card provider and demand a chip and pin card like the rest of the world uses.

Steve Moller

Woodinville