Hi, I called this morning to reserve a room in a small (not chain) hotel in Paris, over the phone, and they not only asked for my credit card number and expiration date, but they also said they needed the 3-digit security code on the back of the card. They are planning to store the information but not bill me until I arrive, which isn't until June '12. I am concerned about giving out the security code--doesn't that mean anyone can use my card for anything? Is this something they typically require? The lady there said no security code, then no reservation, so I gave it to her.
Posted by
Elk Grove, CA, USA
6898 posts
Agree with the above. It's really a process that we are not used to but a lot of the smaller European places to stay just don't have their websites set up to accept credit cards online. We have sent our credit card information in emails several times over the years. We've never had a problem.
Posted by
Tresana, Highlands Ranch, CO, USA
23457 posts
Just to confirm the others. It is common. We have given the information frequently over the years, often by email, with no problems.
Posted by
Northamptonshire, England
33183 posts
Me too. No problems.
Posted by
New Paltz, NY
9109 posts
This is typical. Most all hotels require that non-advance purchase reservations be guaranteed with a credit card. Even though your card won't be charged until after you stay, they need to verify that the card is legit, and not a bunch of made-up numbers. In order to "run" the card they need the security code. Of course it's possible your credit card info could wind up the wrong hands, but that can happen anywhere/anytime. Keep in mind that you're protected from fraudulent activity.
Posted by
Chicago
2876 posts
I wouldn't worry. And remember that if your card is used fraudulently, your maximum liability under federal law is $50.
Posted by
Genesee, ID
1840 posts
We make all our own reservations and give the credit card information without reservation. There has never been a problem in years of doing it. That includes eastern Europe, western Europe, Philippines, India, etc. Don't worry.
Posted by
OP
Buffalo, NY, USA
20 posts
Thanks, now I can stop worrying so much!
Posted by
PA
2776 posts
One other peace of mind thought. if someone accesses their stored info and tries to use your card there, it will surely be kicked by your cc issuer's security because you have not told them you the card is in France. The same reason why you tell your bank and card issuers when you ARE traveling. (yes, I know this is not 100% foolproof if someone really wants to use it)
Posted by
victoria, Canada
11507 posts
Lana,, just chiming in ,, its ok,, no worries.
Posted by
Vernon, Canada
32253 posts
Lana, I'm always a bit "uneasy" about providing credit card information (especially with the CVC number), but so far I haven't had any problems. As the Hotel you're dealing with pointed out so clearly, those who don't provide the credit card information don't get a reservation. One method I sometimes use is to make Hotel reservations on one credit card, and use another for actual travel. That way if the first card is compromised and has to be cancelled, I still have one to use for the trip. Cheers!
Posted by
Florida, USA
12172 posts
Like the Russian proverb, "Trust but verify." I wouldn't worry about it, but do keep an eye on your credit card statements carefully both before and after the trip. If you see activity you didn't authorize, you usually have 60 days to notify your bank to preserve all of your protections from fraud.
Posted by
Tresana, Highlands Ranch, CO, USA
23457 posts
Actually you have longer than 60 days. The sixty day limit is for legal charges that you are disputing for various reason. An illegal charge is fraud and fraud falls outside of the 60 day limit. Sometimes the credit card company would like you to believe that it is only 60 days.