VISA Fraud & Disputes

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Understanding VISA Fraud & Disputes

When you notice a VISA transaction you don’t recognize or something about a purchase doesn’t seem right, it’s important to know how to respond. Use the information below to determine whether the charge is considered fraud or a dispute.

Fraud vs. Disputes: What's the Difference?

Fraudulent Transaction

  • A charge from a company you haven’t done business with.

  • You have no idea how they got your card number.

Disputed Transaction

  • A charge from a company you have done business with.

  • You were charged an extra fee without your permission, or

  • The product or service received wasn’t what you paid for.

Is It Fraud?

For a transaction to be considered fraudulent, you must be able to answer “No” to all of the following questions:

  1. Do you know who made the transaction?

  2. Did you give this person or company your card number?

  3. Have you done business with this person or company in the past?

>>If you answered “Yes” to any of these, it may be considered a dispute, not fraud.<<

What to Do Next

If It’s Fraud:

  1. Call Lisbon Community Federal Credit Union immediately.

  2. We will cancel your card and issue a new one.

  3. You’ll be asked to file a fraud affidavit.

  4. A provisional credit may be issued while the investigation is ongoing.

If It’s a Dispute:

  1. Try contacting the merchant directly to resolve the issue.
    Please Note: Keep a record of who you spoke to and their response as it may be needed for proof that you have attempted to resolve with the merchant first.

  2. If it’s unresolved, contact Lisbon Community FCU.

  3. You will need to complete a dispute form.

  4. We may request supporting documentation (emails, receipts, etc.).

Common Examples

Fraud:

  • A charge from “ABC Electronics” — you've never heard of them and didn’t make a purchase.

  • Transactions from locations you haven’t been to.

  • A subscription you never signed up for suddenly charges your account.

Dispute:

  • You canceled a subscription but are still being charged.

  • You ordered a product online but it never arrived or was of poor quality.

  • The service you paid for wasn’t completed or performed poorly.

  • You were charged twice for the same item.

 What Happens After You File a Claim?

Fraud Claim:

  • We will block the compromised card.

  • You’ll receive a new debit card.

  • A fraud affidavit must be completed and returned.

  • You may receive a temporary credit while the investigation is ongoing.

  • Investigations typically take up to 10 business days (sometimes longer depending on the case).

Dispute Claim:

  • You’ll complete a dispute form explaining the issue.

  • Supporting documents like receipts, emails, or return confirmations help the process.

  • We contact the merchant and/or our card processor to investigate.

  • Provisional credit may be issued depending on the details.

Dispute Time Frame Information

Please note that charges older than 90-days will NOT be disputed for any reason and you will be held liable for those charges.

Helpful Tips to Protect Your Card

  • Never share your card number unless you’re sure of the company’s legitimacy.

  • Regularly check your account for unfamiliar transactions.

  • If something doesn’t look right, report it promptly.

  • Use alerts and account monitoring tools

  • Never click on links on social media to order a product. Always go directly to the merchant site.

We’re Here to Help

If you’re ever unsure whether a charge is fraud or a dispute, contact us right away. Our team is ready to assist you in protecting your account and resolving any issues.

Lisbon Community Federal Credit Union
📞 Phone: 207-353-4144
🌐 Website: LisbonCU.org
🏢 Visit: 325 Lisbon Street – Lisbon, ME  or 802 Sabattus Street – Lewiston, ME