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CA Stores Can't Ask Customers for ZIP Codes Anymore
Photo by alancleaver_2000 via Flickr
Most of us have gotten used to store's cashiers requesting personal information, ranging from our phone number to our date of birth. But that will soon change, at least in small part: the California Supreme Court ruled today that retailers can no longer ask for ZIP codes form customers who pay with credit cards, reports the LA Times:
"The Legislature intended to provide robust consumer protections by prohibiting retailers from soliciting and recording information about the cardholder that is unnecessary to the credit card transaction," Justice Carlos R. Moreno wrote for the court.
The case came about after a woman sued Williams-Sonoma Stores, Inc. for asking for her ZIP code, which she contended could then be used for targeted marketing, as well as sold to other companies for the same purpose. The case was rejected by two lower courts prior to being heard by the state Supreme Court, reports the Times.
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But the game has changed: Congress voted to eliminate funding for public media across the country. Here at LAist that means a loss of $1.7 million in our budget every year. We want to assure you that despite growing threats to free press and free speech, LAist will remain a voice you know and trust. Speaking frankly, the amount of reader support we receive will help determine how strong of a newsroom we are going forward to cover the important news in our community.
We’re asking you to stand up for independent reporting that will not be silenced. With more individuals like you supporting this public service, we can continue to provide essential coverage for Southern Californians that you can’t find anywhere else. Become a monthly member today to help sustain this mission.
Thank you for your generous support and belief in the value of independent news.
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