With the whole Optus data breech going on, I had a thought come to mind when returning an iPad case to JB Hi-Fi. The front counter person asked me for some ID, which I did provide and was wondering why as well, why some retailers like JB HI-Fi and BIG W keep a record of your ID when making a return? And could this information be breeched as well if a leaked also happens?
Curious Why Does Retailers Need Your ID for Retuning an Item?
Comments
"why stress on one particular case, when there's like hundreds of potential risk source?" - True, but I guess like the Optus case verifying if you are actually, you is important, but then how long can they keep your information for? And is it in their best interest to keep your personal identity safe, when it's not detrimental to them if it leaks?
I guess until there's more stricter law enforcement on data security, there's not much an individual can do.
I probably would like to see one digging companies' T&C regarding privacy statement and file lawsuit against them.
The telecommunications act requires identification for purchase. Not an option in this case.
What I find interesting, is how, if it was a Telstra breech, the media would react. With this breech they have been very gentle.
https://www.nsw.gov.au/driving-boating-and-transport/driver-…
Tips to help protect your identity
Using your licence as identification
Businesses often ask for a driver licence as a way to prove your identity to them. When doing so, keep in mind that this can increase the risk of identity theft. To help reduce the risk, remember that:businesses only need to sight your driver licence as proof of identity
there is no legal obligation for them to take a photocopy or photograph of your driver licence
if a business insists on taking a photocopy of your driver licence, ask them to obscure your driver licence number when they take a copy.
Dunno about JB Hi-Fi, but when I used to work for David Jones, we would only ask for your ID if you didn't have proof of purchase when returning an item
That's OK, the coming 'digital ID act' couple with CDBC's will fix all the problems in the world.
I always though chain stores ask for id so they can record if you are returning too many items per yr that is getting new item returning older damaged item
JB actually warrants their stuff so showing the ID is ok.
HN is nothing but TROUBLE! Do not believe me just scroll thru all them posts!
Businesses ask for id because returns are ripe for various kinds of fraud. Asking for id means that they know who you are if they discover something dodgy. Business, for the most part, aren't obliged to give you no-fault refunds and can therefore ask for whatever they like in exchange for that privilege. Asking for id also discourages some customers from taking advantage.
So hackers can steal your identity when they get hacked like Optus
If you purchased an item using your account with them, they have your name, contact number etc (account registration details), showing your ID just ensures you are the actual owner of the product when returning.
if you are a cash customer (basically bought the item without an account), they probably keep an photo ID record, in case you aren't the owner of the product, so they have something to report to police if shit happens.
in terms of your personal details, it is held on every website that you have registered an account before….. why stress on one particular case, when there's like hundreds of potential risk source?