Is it illegal to send a credit card number over instant messenger?
I work for a company that handles credit card transactions over the phone and occasionally we can’t find a transaction on their account we offer or they are calling in about fraudulent use of their credit card. In these situations we have to have a supervisor user their credit card number to look up in our system where all charges are coming from. To do this they have requested we now sent the numbers over instant message. I have explained to my supervisor that I don’t think this is right and was told to do it because we are relying too much on the other call centers for help and it’s the only way he can think of that they can be taking escalated calls and processing refunds and looking up credit card numbers at the same time. My main question then is it legal, or just immoral to do so?
For further information it is NOT a secure instant messenger. It is MSN messenger and you can add outside email address to your list so friends and family are on your work messenger list.
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3 comments
Just Curious! on July 27, 2009 at 11:06 pm
I work in customer service as well, and we share personal information over our "instant messenger" as well-you should be informed that all the employees that work at your place, undergo background checks and strict confidentially and data protocols are in place and adhered by your company. All computer programs-IM and email are all secure, fax and electronic faxes. It’s not a social instant messaging system-it is strictly for professional purposes-which need personal viewing if they go outside the company. Trust me, every call you are on, and every email or instant message you send, is being recorded or reviewed.
rpetch007 on July 27, 2009 at 11:06 pm
never give out the card number as it could be used by others ..
Dylan A on July 27, 2009 at 11:06 pm
it isn’t illegal but anyone who know a bit about computers can get that number and max out a credit card in no time. i wouldn’t advise it