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

Game stores – and the gaming world in general – are more data-hungry than ever. Like many other industries, they gather customer details to spot buying patterns, tailor ads, and run loyalty or rewards schemes. Useful for them – but it raises privacy concerns for many players.

When shopping online, it’s always worth sticking with a reliable site like Recharge. That way, your personal details stay with just one provider, lowering your risk of a data breach. Plus, you can use secure, hassle-free digital cards – so there’s no need to hand over more information than is absolutely necessary.

Still wondering why you’re being asked for your number or address? Here’s the lowdown.

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Why do stores ask for your phone number?

In most cases, platforms like PlayStation Store, Steam and the Nintendo eShop require your number to verify who you are. It also lets them keep you posted about your orders – from confirmation to delivery updates – and, of course, to fire off marketing messages (if you’ve agreed to it).

Why do shops ask for your address?

When you’re buying something physical, your address is needed for postage, as well as figuring out delivery charges and any taxes. And whether it’s a digital item or a physical one, shops often ask for your address to confirm your billing details. This is where Recharge really comes in handy – with digital gift cards, you can skip entering your address altogether, keeping your details more private.

Why do companies want my phone number?

There are a few reasons companies might ask for your phone number. For starters, it allows them to get in touch with you about your account or any purchases you’ve made, and to offer support if something goes wrong. Some companies also use your number for two-factor authentication, which adds an extra layer of security to your account. And then there’s the marketing side – if you’ve given them the go-ahead, they might use your number to send you messages about special offers, upcoming releases, or events you might be interested in.

Why do you need to verify your phone number?

Verifying your number is another layer of protection for your online accounts – and it helps cut down on scams, too.

• Makes scamming more difficult – linking your number to your account proves you’re not a bot or using fake details.
• Secure your login – with two-factor authentication, you’ll get a code by text when signing in, adding extra security.
• Helps with account recovery – if you forget your password, companies can use your number to confirm it’s really you, and help get you back in.

Why do stores ask for your email address?

Game stores will almost always need your email – it’s key for communication and account safety. They’ll use it to:

• Confirm orders – emails are used to send order details and receipts.
• Share promotions – from loyalty perks to sales alerts, expect emails about deals and new launches.
• Track activity – companies may use your email to link your browsing habits and tailor offers to suit.
• Help you log in – whether setting up a new account or recovering an old one, email verification is usually part of the process.

What information can someone get from your phone number?

You’d be surprised what people can dig up with just your phone number. If it’s tied to public profiles or leaked databases, someone could potentially figure out:

1. Your name and location – through phone directories, social media, or old online accounts, your number could reveal information like your full name, your city, and potentially your mobile data provider.
2. Your social media profiles – many apps like WhatsApp and Facebook let others search for you using your number. If someone did this, they may be able to uncover your appearance via profile photos, your username, and any other information displayed like where you live.
3. Other personal details – such as your employer, rough age, or email address. This could lead to revealing your email address, while scammers could identify potential connections to pose as. 

Why would someone ask for my phone number?

There are plenty of honest reasons someone might ask for your phone number. 

• To get in touch – phone calls are a quick and reliable way of reaching someone.
• To send information – like booking confirmations, login codes, or special offers.
• To confirm your identity – for two-factor login or to help you reset a password.

That said, some people may have ulterior motives. Always be cautious about who you share your number with. If it’s not clear why they want it, ask. A trustworthy person or company should be able to explain it without any fuss.

To avoid giving your number to every site under the sun, trusted providers like Recharge offer a secure way to shop. Pay securely using digital gift cards and you won’t need to share your details on multiple sites.

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Should you have your phone number on your website?

Only if you actually want people to call you. Even then, it’s wise to think twice before posting it publicly – it can lead to spam calls or worse. If you need to share a number, look into 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 called SIM swapping or number porting, and it’s how some scammers take over your number to break into your accounts.They may do this in order to:

• Transfer your number – by convincing your phone provider to move it to their SIM card, they can start getting your messages and calls, including login codes.
• Send phishing texts – using your number to contact your mates or family with dodgy links or urgent-sounding requests for money.

To keep your number safe, avoid sharing more information than needed:

• Avoid sharing your phone number on public websites or social media.
  
• Use an authenticator app for two-factor login instead of relying on SMS codes.
• Never click suspicious links or give out personal information over the phone to people you don’t know.
• Use platforms like Recharge to help you limit how often you need to hand over your details. By using digital gift cards, you can keep things simpler – and safer.