at some point in time, there's a layer where you have to give someone some level of trust. again, in the case of ATM and gas station skimming, even official looking devices can be malicious.

also, what are your thoughts on online purchases? you're relinquishing a certain degree of control there, too.

disputing isn't fun or convenient, but if it wasn't there or it was worse, i don't know that the CC system would be as popular or successful. its one of the reasons why debit cards had a rocky start.