I understand. I didn't think it was going to be an issue so much as I didn't believe it was called-for in my case (but I actually don't like taking pictures of my CC, TBH). But I stood my ground and they did the right thing (as far as I know anyhow lol).
i placed an order w/ SM at the beginning of Sept. Got the request for a pic of my cc & did as they asked. It did occur to me that it could be a scam so the pic showed only the digits of the card # they requested, no expiration date or 3-digit code. Figured any false charges that might happen anyway could be taken care of w/ a phone call. Card bill showed the charge as being from SAVAGLORY. Maybe SM uses several payment processors.
Anyhow, the order came today. Mostly backup coil heads they had on clearance (i had one of my periodic "did i stock up enough?" episodes). Everything ordered arrived.
SM's info page says they're using a new shipper to lower the cost. Maybe new shipper + new (cheaper) payment processor...?
Aside from the pic thing, it all went normally. Thought you'd like to know.