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Why avoid using PIN if required for cc transaction?

I bought "Rick Steves' Europe 2011" and am mystified by the statement, "While using your credit card's PIN can help get you out of a jam, be aware that punching it in during a live transaction could increase your risk of fraud." (page 174). How is that?

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32171 posts

Turnip, I don't know the reason that was printed in the book, but suspect that using the PIN might allow the numbers to be "captured" either via a Camera or from a "modified" POS Terminal. If you don't have a "chip & PIN" credit card, I don't see any reason at all to use your credit card PIN, unless you're using it for a cash advance at an ATM. Cheers!