A simple phrase and pin code may be all you need the next time you pay for that book or CD at Amazon.
The online retailer on Thursday debuted a new feature called Amazon PayPhrase, designed to let busy shoppers store their name, address, and payment information in a single phrase and pin code. Instead of entering all that data at the online checkout counter, you type your phrase and pin number when it’s time to cough up the cash.
PayPhrase doesn’t just work at Amazon–it can be used at any online retailer that lets you pay via Amazon Payments. That covers a range of cyberstores, including Buy.com, J&R Electronics, DKNY, and Car Toys.
PayPhrase also omits the need for a user name and password to store your personal info on every shopping site that uses Amazon Payments. However, you will need an Amazon.com account to set up and maintain your phrase.
Makes total sense.
People remember phrases better than lengthy passwords. I use a “pass phrase” today to encrypt my work laptop disk drive. A great idea.
I don’t see how this is even necessary. Amazon already has a “one-click” checkout option.
Does this mean that Amazon will no longer keep users’ sensitive personal data on their servers where it is vulnerable to hackers? That’s a good idea.
They’ve tried this before; it was called Microsoft Passport.
And it’s a bad idea and a waste of time.
This is going to bring phishing schemes to a whole new level. I’m sure soon enough people will find common phrases and begin systematically attacking. For example, bible verses and famous movie quotes will get hammered. They are using 4 digit pins too…that’s weak.
So now I have to remember a long phrase instead of a short password? And I have to remember a pin? No thanks.