On Thu, 06 Dec 2007 08:45:47 -0500, Goomba38 >
wrote:

>Janet Baraclough wrote:
>
>>> And knowing device manufacturers like I know device manufacturers, they
>>> took the cheap way out as far as encrypting the wireless connection.
>>
>> passwords?
>>
>> When the card is in the machine and has been verified, the payer enters
>> a PIN on the keypad (4-digit Personal Id Number). Out of view of the
>> waiter.The transaction won't go through without the correct PIN.
>>
>> Janet. (UK)
>
>That is for debit cards, not charge cards. When I use my AMEX at
>restaurants I'm never asked for a PIN.

I have a Mastercard credit card which has a chip and I do have to
enter my PIN. The problem with chipcards in the US is the NIH
syndrome...

Nathalie in Switzerland