Amazon Western Union Deal To Test Consumers’ True Data Fears
Written by Evan SchumanMarch 25th, 2009
A new deal between Amazon and Western Union—where consumers can give cash to Western Union and have it instantly turned into an online gift certificate—has the potential to truly test how concerned consumers are about data fraud today.
On the one hand, the deal would initially seem to make little sense for Amazon, as it takes away much of the spontaneity, speed and convenience of an online brand. But this program isn't about saving money or boosting convenience. The only way this makes sense is giving the program credit for being the only way to make online purchases that are—in theory—absolutely safe. If Amazon, Amazon's card processor or Western Union is breached, there's no private financial data exposed. If any of those businesses has a glitch and tries to overcharge the consumer, the consumer is completely safe as there exists no more money to access.
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4 Comments | Read Amazon Western Union Deal To Test Consumers’ True Data Fears
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March 25th, 2009 at 8:35 am
It’s an interesting idea. The rising of number of data breaches has been causing concern for millions of people. Could be a heck of an opportunity for Western Union as well.
March 25th, 2009 at 8:36 pm
I guess I won’t be shopping at Amazon anymore. I’m not going to drive to a Western Union to make a transaction. I purchase online because it is quick and easy. If I’m out, I’d rather shop at a retail store than go to a Western Union and get charged extra fees.
IMO a big waste of time and I do not have time to look for a western union.
I’m glad I did my shopping at Amazon last week.
March 26th, 2009 at 7:14 am
Someone who normally buys Amazon gift cert. online might not find this appealing, but for the folks who buy gift cert in stores (where, of course, cash is currently still accepted), I could see this being an option. It would depend on the fees. If cheaper than the Visa debit card/gift card, it might work. And Western Unions might be more places than Shopper realizes – I think there is one in my grocery store.
January 29th, 2010 at 7:48 pm
this idea is a gem for international shopppers.In the u.s some may think not of the hassle of obtaining an acceptable credit card. But for international shoppers with family and friends in the u.s, this idea may be the missing link.