A simple and quick solution is that the pin should be introduced in these payment terminals
KARACHI: ATMs in banks have one factor authentication, by a four-digit pin, of a debit card that protects its misuse. But there is no control on stolen cards on payment terminals used in shopping malls, restaurants, etc. Anybody can just walk in to a mall and purchase a product by paying from their cards. The teller just provides a slip, keeps a copy for his shop and hands over the purchased items to the recipient, often without checking whether the person owns the card or not.
It happened to a few of my acquaintances who lost their cards. They were alarmed when they received a message of debit on their mobiles, accounting for purchases they didn’t make. They immediately contacted the respective bank call centres and got their cards deactivated. But the theft was done. Although these incidents can be tracked but it is an investigative approach that is needed to help find the culprit.
A simple and quick solution is that the pin should be introduced in these payment terminals. I urge the regulatory authorities to look into this matter and immediately implement this solution to safeguard consumer rights.
SM Waqas Imam
Published in The Express Tribune, April 22nd, 2017.
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