As one who has had his checking account emptied thanks to some stolen checks, I'm more than happy to put up with the minor inconvenience of having the occasional "out-of-character" purchase temporarily rejected. (If my bank had done the same thing, I wouldn't have had to scramble for the rent money that month) If the credit card companies are keeping closer tabs on purchases these days, it's a step in the right direction. Trust me, it sure beats the hell out of the alternative.