Why do game stores ask for my phone number or address?

These days, game stores – and the gaming industry more broadly – are increasingly data-driven. Like many businesses, they collect customer details to understand buying habits, tailor advertising, and run rewards or loyalty programs. Useful for them, but it can raise privacy concerns for players.

When you’re shopping online, it’s worth using a trusted site like Recharge. That way, your details stay with one provider, which helps reduce your risk of a data breach. You can also pay using secure, fuss-free digital cards – so there’s no need to hand over more personal information than you need to.

Still wondering why they’re asking for your phone number or address? Here’s what’s going on.

Find digital cards at Recharge

Why do stores ask for your phone number?

Generally, platforms like PlayStation Store, Steam and Xbox will ask for your number to confirm your identity. It also allows them to keep you in the loop about your orders – from confirmation through to delivery updates – and, if you’ve given permission, they might send you promotional updates too.

Why do shops ask for your address?

If you’re buying something physical, your address is needed for postage and to calculate delivery charges or tax. Whether you’re ordering digital goods or a hard copy, retailers may also ask for your address to verify your billing information. That’s where Recharge comes in handy – with digital cards, there’s no need to share your billing address.

Why do companies want my phone number?

There are a few reasons a company might ask for your phone number. First up, it makes it easier for them to get in touch about your account or purchases, and to sort out any issues if something goes wrong. Your number is also useful for setting up two-factor authentication, which adds an extra level of security to your account. On top of that, if you’ve given them the green light, they may use it for marketing – sending updates on special offers, new releases, or events they think you’ll be interested in.

Why do you need to verify your phone number?

Verifying your number is a simple but effective way to help protect your account. Plus, it can cut down on dodgy activity.

• It makes scamming trickier – linking a phone number to an account proves you’re not a bot or using fake details.
•  It protects your login – two-factor authentication means you’ll get a code by text when logging in, making it harder for anyone else to get access.
• It helps with account recovery –  if you forget your password, your number can be used to confirm your identity and reset things securely.

Why do stores ask for your email address?

Game stores almost always ask for your email because it’s essential for communication and keeping your account secure. They’ll use it to:

• Confirm your orders – emails are sent with order details, receipts, and delivery updates.
• Send you promotions – loyalty rewards, sales, and launch alerts will usually land in your inbox.
• Track your activity – retailers can link your email to your browsing habits to personalise offers.
• Help you log in – email verification is often needed when creating an account or resetting your password.

What information can someone get from your phone number?

You’d be surprised how much someone can find out using just your phone number. If it’s connected to public records or leaked databases, they might be able to dig up:

1. Your name and location – if your number’s listed in directories or social media accounts, someone might uncover your full name, city, or even your phone provider.
2. Your social media profiles – apps like WhatsApp or Facebook let people search by number. If they do, they might find your profile photo, username, or other public information.
3. Other personal details – including your workplace, age bracket, or email address. Scammers can use this to guess passwords, target you with phishing scams, or pretend to be someone you know.

Why would someone ask for my phone number?

There are plenty of legitimate reasons someone might want your phone number. It might be to call you directly, to send booking confirmations or security codes, or to help verify your identity. 

• To contact you – phone calls are a quick and reliable way of reaching someone.
• To send you information – they may text you booking confirmations, login codes, or special offers.
• To confirm your identity – used to set up or activate two-factor login or to help you reset a password.

But not everyone has good intentions, so it’s important to be careful about who you’re giving your number to. If it’s not clear why they want it, ask. Anyone genuine should be able to explain without making a fuss.

If you’d rather not share your number with multiple websites, services like Recharge give you a more secure way to shop. By using digital gift cards, you can keep your personal details off other platforms.

Shop digital cards

Should you have your phone number on your website?

Only if you need to be contacted. Even then, it’s worth thinking twice before posting your number publicly – you could end up with spam calls or worse. If you need to share a number, consider using a business line through services like Ringover or OpenPhone instead of your personal mobile.

Can someone steal your mobile number?

Unfortunately, yes it’s possible. It’s called SIM swapping or number porting, and it’s one way scammers try to hijack your identity. They do it to:

• Transfer your number – by tricking your phone provider into moving your number to their SIM card, they can intercept your calls and texts – including two-factor login codes.
• Send phishing texts – once they’ve got your number, scammers might text your contacts with dodgy links or urgent-sounding requests for cash.

To keep your number safe, it’s best share as little information as possible:

• Avoid sharing your phone number on public websites or social media.
• Use an authenticator app for two-factor login, instead of relying on SMS.
• Never click on suspicious links or give out personal details over the phone unless you’re sure who you’re speaking to.
• Platforms like Recharge can help reduce how often you need to hand over your personal details. By using digital cards, you can shop smarter and stay safer online.