Advocate: Use caution when disclosing ZIP codes at checkout Consumers

Although mostly used for fraud prevention, some retailers go ‘data mining.’

Ever notice how some merchants ask for your ZIP code when you’re using a credit card at the checkout?

It’s becoming a common practice, and most consumers reflexively disclose the code, believing it’s a security measure.

But that’s not always the case. Some retailers use the information to send unwanted catalogs, junk mail and telemarketers your way

By Jennifer Napier-Pearce The Salt Lake Tribune

Full Story: http://www.sltrib.com/sltrib/money/56048020-79/zip-card-codes-credit.html.csp