buying on line

[Leschenauds]

I have made quite a few purchases over the internet from car tyres and parts to tools,computer bits and clothing and the service is usually excellent however, recently two companies with whom I wished to do business have asked me to send (fax or email) a copy of a utilities bill to prove that I live where I say as well as give my card details as an 'anti-fraud measure'. My view is that I consider that this in unnecessary imposition so I placed orders for the same goods with other companies. Is this a new trend? If it is, its the kind of thing that I left the UK to get away from. What next? CCTV cameras everywhere? Maybe I am over reacting a bit but why do some businesses feel that they need to do this. I do hope that they lose even more customers until this idea is dropped.