The authorization approval for the card that you are processing is just the beginning in the multi-step procedure in the credit card transaction no matter if you are using a domestic merchant account or an offshore merchant account.

At times you may come across a potentially stolen card. One of the ways to avoid this is to make sure the address is 100% correct. That means that if an apartment or unit number is included as part of the address, it should be 100% correct. The zip code must be accurate too.

When you receive an approval code, ALL information must match up. If you do not verify the address, including the details mentioned, you will get a mismatch. Cancel your transaction immediately and do not continue with it. Lastly, always ship to the billing address, this way you will not have any additional problems.

Other things to consider for your company’s safety is not to ship to a foreign address except those countries that do frequent commerce with the U.S.A. – avoid countries that have higher fraud related problems.

Consider the quality, uniqueness and the price of your product. Then also consider how many of these items your credit card purchaser wants. Consider the speed that the purchaser wants your product(s). All these points might alert you to a potential fraudulent purchaser.

When you “smell” something that doesn’t sound legitimate – proceed slowly, you may even want the potential purchaser to fax a copy of his credit card. Take precautions. It will be the best for you and your business.