
Originally Posted by
Oobgarm
I think he's talking about one of those "activate at register" cards, much like what Apple iTunes gift cards and prepaid phone cards come on. Once the UPC is scanned, the register should prompt for the card-specific barcode to activate it. MS started using those at retail somewhat recently, replacing all of the plastic-packed, active cards.
The card is useless unless it's activated, which cuts back on theft.