OP...nice letter, but consider the value of the RDM's as a cheap instruction in how to deal with the fraud prevention system.
We are leisure travelers who occasionally travel internationally. I call and have the account notated for the country/countries we'll be traveling to. We have 5 cards with Chase (UA and Marriott) and one call notates them all. Never a problem.
BTW, no need to be without a phone in Japan....
http://www.rental-mobile.com/en/domestic/index.html
The JAL phone desk and the ATM are our first stops at KIX
I sure similar applies in other countries but I haven't been to any since having to stay in contact with home while traveling. Cheap insurance and convenience, IMO.
Safe travels!
Pat