Fraud codes categorize unauthorized or fraudulent transactions. Visa defines these codes based on transaction characteristics to help financial institutions and merchants identify fraud patterns and assess risk.

These codes appear in fraud notifications and cannot be disputed.

Visa fraud codes

List of Visa fraud reason codes

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0 - Card reported lost

Unauthorized transaction with a card reported lost by the cardholder.

1 - Card reported stolen

Unauthorized transaction with a card reported stolen by the cardholder.

2 - Not received as issued (NRI)

Unauthorized transaction with a card was intercepted before the cardholder received it.

3 - Fraudulent application

Fraudulent payment with the use of a card that was obtained with an application using a false name or other false identification information.

4 - Issuer counterfeit

Fraudulent payment with the use of an altered or illegally reproduced card.

5 - Miscellaneous

Any fraud reason not listed under other fraud reason codes.

6 - Fraudulent use of account number

Fraudulent payment with the use of card information including pseudo-account information without the physical card or other device being involved. This occurs via phone, mail, or other electronic means without actual, implied, or apparent cardholder authority.

9 - Acquirer reported counterfeit

Unauthorized transaction related to collusion between a merchant and the acquirer, without the actual, implied, or apparent cardholder authority.

A - Incorrect processing

Fraudulent transaction caused by incorrect processing. Occurs when merchants fail to validate required security elements. For example, fraudulent EMV transactions that result from missing cryptogram validation.

B - Account or credentials takeover

Fraudulent transaction by the person who took over an existing account of a legitimate client or credentials through unauthorized means. For example, fraudulent use of the cardholder’s digital wallet via stolen credentials like mobile passcode or wallet login information.

C - Merchant misrepresentation

Fraud results from a merchant deliberately misleading the account holder. For example, the provided goods or services are either not as promised, of substandard quality, or delivered incorrectly. The merchant may also charge more than anticipated, extend charges beyond agreed terms, or bill for longer periods than contracted.

D - Manipulation of account holder

Fraud results from a merchant manipulating an account holder into completing what they believe to be a legitimate transaction. For example, sending funds to a fraudulent beneficiary whereby the sender believes they are helping an individual in distress or a struggling business.