At any time during a transaction if you suspect that you are dealing with a fraudulent credit card or cardholder, you will need to make a Code 10 authorization call. Requesting a Code 10 authorization alerts the card issuer to suspicious activity without alerting the customer that you suspect fraud. During a Code 10 call, you will speak to a special operator, who will ask you yes or no questions and provide instructions on any necessary steps to take.

Placing a Code 10 Call
If you receive an electronic authorization but still suspect that a card or cardholder is fraudulent, follow these steps:

Keep holding the card so that you can respond to questions easily.
Call your voice authorization center and say "I have a Code 10 Authorization Request."

When your merchant bank connects you to the special operator, answer all questions calmly and in a normal tone of voice.

Follow all operator instructions as long as it is safe to do so.

For the safety of your employees and other customers, do not confront or try to apprehend the customer.

If it is necessary to call law enforcement, the special operator will place the call while you are on the line.

Not sure how to recognize a fraudulent transaction? Check out the resources in our Credit Card Fraud Prevention Library!