Glossary

Voice Authorization

Voice Authorization is a specialized procedure used to secure approval for a payment transaction through direct verbal communication with the card issuer. This method is typically employed in scenarios where the physical presence of a credit card is not feasible, such as during telephone orders, online purchases, or in cases where the merchant's electronic authorization system is temporarily unavailable.

The Voice Authorization process involves the merchant initiating a phone call to the card issuer's authorization center. During this call, the merchant is required to provide specific transaction details including, but not limited to, the transaction amount, card number, and expiration date. Additionally, the card issuer may request supplementary information to enhance security and verify the authenticity of the transaction. This can include the cardholder's name, billing address, and the three-digit security code (CVV) found on the back of the card.

Moreover, to further safeguard against fraud and ensure the merchant's identity, the card issuer may ask the merchant to answer a series of security questions. These questions are designed to confirm that the merchant is authorized to conduct the transaction on behalf of the cardholder.

Once the card issuer receives all the necessary information and successfully verifies the details, they will provide an authorization code. This code serves as confirmation that the transaction is approved and can be processed. The merchant must then record this authorization code and complete the transaction according to the issuer’s guidelines.

Voice Authorization is a crucial fallback mechanism, ensuring that transactions can proceed smoothly even in the absence of electronic processing capabilities. It adds an additional layer of security, helping to prevent fraudulent activities by involving direct interaction with the card issuer. This process, while sometimes considered cumbersome compared to automated systems, provides a reliable alternative for both merchants and cardholders to conduct transactions safely and securely.

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