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offcntrI process a lot of credit cards. Not just for my own business; I belong to three different pottery organizations with central-sales shows, and I always seem to be on the busy shift. I have a system. Check the customer’s signature. If the card isn’t signed (or if the sig has worn off), ask for a picture ID.
Occasionally, this is embarrassing—the customer whose preferred gender didn’t match their old ID—occasionally fascinating. (The women at Clayfolk, one of whom had her concealed carry handgun permit, the other, a medical marijuana card. Also? I got to see Casey Affleck’s California driver’s license.) Generally, though, they’re glad I'm paying attention.
Not this guy.
I don’t remember what he was buying, just that he paid with an American Express Gold Card. Unsigned, so I asked to see ID.
What do you need that for? It's pre-approved. You're guaranteed your money.
I explain that it's not for us; it’s for his safety, I'm just making sure nobody is using his card that isn't him. Oh, American Express won't do that; the customer is never responsible for fraudulent charges.
He seems actually offended that I, a lowly potter, might feel responsible for protecting him from identity theft.
He’s a banker, his wife explains, sotto voce, after I've handed him his receipt. Honestly? I think he's an asshole. I think he was upset that the poor starving artist wasn't impressed by his symbol of financial status.
The next guy in line paid with an AmEx standard card. And was grateful that I checked his ID.
Occasionally, this is embarrassing—the customer whose preferred gender didn’t match their old ID—occasionally fascinating. (The women at Clayfolk, one of whom had her concealed carry handgun permit, the other, a medical marijuana card. Also? I got to see Casey Affleck’s California driver’s license.) Generally, though, they’re glad I'm paying attention.
Not this guy.
I don’t remember what he was buying, just that he paid with an American Express Gold Card. Unsigned, so I asked to see ID.
What do you need that for? It's pre-approved. You're guaranteed your money.
I explain that it's not for us; it’s for his safety, I'm just making sure nobody is using his card that isn't him. Oh, American Express won't do that; the customer is never responsible for fraudulent charges.
He seems actually offended that I, a lowly potter, might feel responsible for protecting him from identity theft.
He’s a banker, his wife explains, sotto voce, after I've handed him his receipt. Honestly? I think he's an asshole. I think he was upset that the poor starving artist wasn't impressed by his symbol of financial status.
The next guy in line paid with an AmEx standard card. And was grateful that I checked his ID.