LOUISVILLE, Ky. (February 25, 2010) - The prevalence of identity theft and
transactional fraud has made many Americans question whether or not traditional
credit cards are the safest way to spend. While credit is an integral component
to our nations economy, the current economic state has caused many consumers
to seek out alternative means of money management. One of the fastest growing
available options is the prepaid debit card.
Also referred to as a stored value card or gift card, the
prepaid debit card has enjoyed a recent boost in popularity. When compared to
traditional credit cards, the consumer interest is easy to understand: prepaid
debit cards are simple, reloadable tools with which consumers can manage their
own money instead of borrowing from an institution.
The prepaid debit card is growing in popularity and will
soon become a mainstream alternative for consumer financial management. In this
article, well discuss key security concerns of prepaid debit cards and how you
can take steps to further protect your business and your customers while
supporting the use of prepaid debit cards as they continue to grow in
popularity as a method of payment.
Unlawful Funds
Transfers
The ease of use and lack of identity protection on most
prepaid debit cards has led them in the past to be used as tools for criminal
transportation of funds, both domestically and internationally. For this and
other security reasons, prepaid debit cards may be subject, now or in the future,
to revised government regulations. Your business will need to be prepared with
an up-to-date federal compliance program, including procedures for Bank Secrecy
Act (BSA)/Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN) reporting.
Identity Fraud
While most mainstream prepaid cards are activated using a
secure PIN code that enables the carrier to conduct safe transactions, the
level of security featured with the card varies wildly between providers.
However, pending regulations may standardize prepaid security. Provisions of
the Credit Card Accounting Responsibility and Disclosure Act of 2009 call for FinCEN
regulations in regards to the prepaid card distribution process. In addition to
federal compliance procedures, you should consider implementing a system of identity verification that addresses the customers using a prepaid debit card,
especially those without a security PIN, until a standardization of prepaid
security goes into effect.
International
Protection
Prepaid debit cards are popular for their anonymity, as
consumers are now understandably concerned about the safety of their
identities. Prepaid cards are also popular because transactions can be
conducted successfully online or over the phone with businesses that accept
popular brands of credit cards. For online businesses, especially those in the
global marketplace, it is essential to employ some method of identity authentication, domestic or international, in order to protect against
online business internet fraud through the use of prepaid debit cards.
Electronic Verification Systems, an industry leader with
more than 10 years of data provision and fraud prevention
experience, specializes in integrating identity verification and authentication
procedures into established business security structures. If youre concerned
about staying compliant and secure as prepaid transactions become more
commonplace, we can help. EVS can implement a comprehensive identity
verification or authentication program that blends seamlessly into the end-user
experience for the very best in security and customer satisfaction. Contact us
today at electronicverificationsystems.com.