[KeepingItReal]

Originally Posted by The Mountaineer

My worst experience with my credit cards was at a McDonald's in New York City. I should have questioned it when the Mickey D clerk looked at my 3-digit number on the back. They didn't get my card, but used my number to purchase almost $500 worth of stuff at local stores, including at a parking lot. It cost me nothing except I had to change my credit card number and notify a ton of automatic bill payees and, of course, forgot about a few till later. I no longer use my credit cards at McDonald's.

For many years we have removed the 3 digit code on any new or replacement cards, credit and debit, once we have noted it in a secure place. No merchant should ever need the code if you are there in person with identification and card in hand. Another step is to put SEE I. D. where you would normally sign the card. Removing the code could prevent at least some of the on line uses if the number is compromised.

http://money.usnews.com/money/blogs/...-security-code