We're first time travelers to Paris and think we've found an apartment we like. The reviews are solid on multiple apartment rental sites. The owner will accept credit cards. Suggests we send half the credit card info in one email and the other half in another. Does this sound okay? I could also call him with the information. Just not very experienced in this area. Thanks.
Posted by
Ann Arbor, Mi
3696 posts
You could send it in two emails if you are uncomfortable with sending it in one. I just send it in one and have never had a problem, but if you feel better doing it in two, go ahead.... otherwise you can just call.
Posted by
Adelaide, SA, Australia
977 posts
I always phone through the details when a credit card deposit is required. This is also a way to establish an early personal contact with the establishment.
Posted by
Seattle, Washington, United States
284 posts
If it's convenient, I would call but I sincerely doubt that anything would ever happen if you sent it via e-mail. The only scenario would be if his account was hacked and someone got ahold of it that way... but that's so remote that it's not worth worrying about. You could also give half via e-mail and then the rest by using this service: http://onetimenote.com
It creates a code that is tied to a text message that can be retrieved exactly one time. After that, the code doesn't work and no one else can get the text note. By splitting it, you ensure that only half of what you need is ever accessible to one person and you can skip the phone call.
Posted by
Sacramento, California U.S.A.
10259 posts
I have done what the landlord has suggested on multiple occasions. It might not be necessary, but I feel better about it. If they are asking for the credit card number and the 3 digit security code on the back of the card I split it like this - 1st email contains the first 2 groups of numbers and the 3 digit code (specify this). The 2nd email contains the last 2 groups of numbers. I would not have the last 4 numbers AND the security code on the back in the same email. Enjoy Paris!!
Posted by
Chicago
2876 posts
Most Visa and Mastercard credit cards now have "Zero Liability" protection. Yours probably do too. Check with your card issuer to make sure. If you have this you need have no worries about emailing your card information.
Posted by
Tresana, Highlands Ranch, CO, USA
23340 posts
Sending the info by email is far more secure than phone or fax. Splitting the number has little to no impact on security. When you use email you probably have a 1 in one billion chance of intercept and splitting into two transmissions probably takes it into the one in ten billion range - hardly worth the effort.
Posted by
Oak Park, Illinois
4535 posts
The real danger is who is on the receiving end, not some kind of hacking in cyberspace. If the person you email it to is corrupt, it doesn't matter how many emails or phone calls you break it down with. And in the end, the worst that happens is you have to get a new card and update some of your auto-payments...