[blincoln]

This is actually not difficult to address. Modify the account creation process so that the first step is to enter an email address. If the account does not already exist, an account activation link/code is sent. If it does, a password reset link/code is sent.

[pavel_lishin]

> If the account does not already exist, an account activation link/code is sent.

That's not great for all use cases, though - if I'm just trying to check out of a store, I don't want to have to bounce to my email to confirm stuff.

[JimDabell]

If you're just trying to check out of a store, you don't have to sign up for an account at all. Or if you do want to create an account, you can have it as an optional step after you've placed the order.