debit/credit cards and chip and pin

[chazza]

Is it legal to accept payment from a credit/debit card without asking for any validation?

I'm asking because I recently used one of the self service tills at tescos (the ones where you scan your own items and pay by cash/card) and paid by switch. The machine didn't ask for a pin, so anyone could have used anyone elses card.

[Oneeyedvic]

Is it legal? - Yes

Is it a good idea - No!

If it is a fraudulent case, then Tescos would have no recourse to get the money.

If they did have the PIN number, even if it were fraud, Tescos would get their money, the bank would lose out.