The US payment industry is like Nero watching Rome burn.  Just as they show signs of getting it together following the Target data breach, they are still debating retaining the ability to sign a card chit as an option to requiring a pin.  PIN is considered an option by these folks.

MasterCard, Visa form group to push for better card security

They can also require – depending on the issuer – that users enter a personal identification number, or PIN, to make purchases, adding an extra layer of security.