Cell numbers will be used for purchases

As early as the second half of this year, customers will be able to use mobile phone numbers instead of credit card numbers to buy products.
Korea’s three mobile service providers, SK Telecom, KTF and LG Telecom, signed a memorandum of agreement to begin “mobile safe payment services.”
Until now, when ordering a product on television home shopping, for example, the consumer had to tell the operator the details of their credit card, including the number and expiration date. This led to problems in the past when personal information was stolen.
When the mobile service is activated, consumers will only have to reveal their cell phone numbers. They will then receive a text message, then connect to the credit card company’s authorization system. This service is currently available with SK Telecom at a few test stores, such as Pizza Hut.

By Wohn Dong-hee Staff Writer [wohn@joongang.co.kr]