Credit cards in the US



Credit cards were invented in the US, but their technology here (or lack of it) means they have been left behind compared to Australia.
Back home, we’re all used to PayWave (or its equivalent) to buy anything under $100. Over $100 and you use your PIN. Here in the US and Canada, the concept is unknown.
Fifty percent of all transactions will see your card ‘swiped’ with a signature required. The other fifty percent will read the chip in your card, but then you still have to sign. This means unnecessary delays for all transactions and I’m sure a significant amount of paper work as all those signatures are collated and stored?
When you do sign, there is no checking of your signature with the back of your card or your passport or ID. 
However when you’re handed the portable EFTPOS machine to hit ‘OK’ for your transaction, you’re presented with three more options. (1) is to tip 15%, (2) is to tip 10% and (3) is no tip. It works out the percentage for you. Needless to say, (3) was my option.  
Can’t help but wonder how secure this all is. If your card is stolen, it would seem that anyone could use it without any checks - at least for small amounts. 
I have seen only one ‘PayWave’ terminal - but it wasn’t operating.

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