Card-Not-Present Fraud: What it is, How it Works

Card-not-present fraud is a type of credit card scam in which the customer does not physically present the card to the merchant during the fraudulent transaction. Card-not-present fraud can occur with transactions that are conducted online or over the phone in which the user only provides the credit card numbers.

Card-not-present fraud can be difficult to detect because the merchant cannot personally examine the credit card for signs of possible fraud, such as a missing hologram or altered account number. However, the merchant can take some steps to try to minimize the risk of card-not-present fraud, such as by verifying a user's mailing address associated with the card or using biometrics like fingerprints.

Nearly half of Americans have been the victim of digital payment fraud. Learn how it works and ways to prevent it.

Card-Not-Present Fraud Definition

Credit card payment processors take a number of steps to minimize card-not-present fraud. These include verifying that the address provided by the customer at the time of purchase matches the billing address on file with the credit card company, checking the validity of three-digit CVV security codes, and prohibiting merchants from storing these codes.

However, if the criminal has stolen these details, the fraudulent transaction may appear legitimate.

How Card-Not-Present Fraud Works

Card-not-present fraud can occur when a criminal obtains a cardholder’s name, billing address, account number, three-digit CVV security code, or card expiration date. These details can be stolen electronically without obtaining the physical card.

When card-not-present fraud occurs, the merchant bears the loss. This type of fraud can have a significant impact on the merchant’s bottom line, especially for retail establishments, which tend to have smaller profit margins.

By contrast, in card-present fraud, the credit card issuer usually bears the loss, not the merchant. Under credit card terms and conditions, the credit card issuer will not hold the cardholder liable for any fraudulent charges, whether through card-present or card-not-present fraud.

How Card-Not-Present Fraud Is Detected

Sophisticated technology can help detect many instances of attempted card-not-present fraud. For example, credit card companies have methods of detecting credit card purchases that are likely fraudulent given the accountholder’s typical card usage.

Merchants can take steps like using biometric information like fingerprints or voice patterns to try to detect card-not-present fraud. They can also try to confirm the identity of a cardholder by using personal information like a mailing address.

However, they cannot easily detect online shoplifting or friendly fraud. In this scenario, the criminal will make a purchase online or by phone, receive the merchandise, then file a dispute with the credit card issuer saying that the merchandise is inferior or that it never arrived. The issuer initiates a chargeback and the merchant has to refund the dishonest customer.

The Bottom Line

Card-not-present fraud is a danger that can threaten your personal finances and personal identity. Merchants can work to prevent this type of fraud in a few ways, including by using biometrics for identification or verifying an identity with information like a mailing address.

Monitor your credit and credit card statements regularly and look for any signs of fraud, such as purchases you didn't make. If you believe you've been a victim of card-not-present fraud, contact your credit card company immediately.