Last Updated: 01/01/2025
Effective Date: 01/01/2024

At Merchifies.com, we are committed to maintaining a secure, trustworthy marketplace that protects customers, sellers, and our business from fraudulent activities. This Anti-Fraud Policy outlines our comprehensive approach to preventing, detecting, and responding to fraud across our print-on-demand platform.

By using Merchifies.com, you agree to comply with this Anti-Fraud Policy, our Terms of Service, Privacy Policy, and all other applicable policies.

Quick Summary (TL;DR)

• 🛡️ Zero Tolerance: Immediate action against all forms of fraud with account termination and legal prosecution

• 🤖 Advanced Detection: AI/ML systems, real-time monitoring, device fingerprinting, and expert human review

• 💳 Payment Security: PCI DSS Level 1 compliance, 3D Secure, AVS/CVV verification, and tokenization

• 🌍 Global Compliance: Full adherence to AML, OFAC, GDPR, CCPA, and international regulations

• 🚨 24/7 Monitoring: Continuous surveillance with immediate response to suspicious activities

• 📞 Report Fraud: [email protected] for immediate assistance

• 🤝 User Education: Comprehensive training and resources for fraud prevention

• ⚖️ Legal Action: Full cooperation with law enforcement and civil litigation when necessary

Types of Fraud We Combat

Payment and Financial Fraud

Credit Card and Payment Fraud:

• Stolen Payment Methods: Unauthorized use of credit cards, debit cards, or payment accounts

• Card Testing: Small transactions to verify stolen card validity before larger purchases

• Account Takeover: Unauthorized access to customer payment accounts (PayPal, Apple Pay, etc.)

• Synthetic Identity Fraud: Creating fake identities using combinations of real and fabricated information

• Triangulation Schemes: Using stolen cards to purchase items shipped to legitimate addresses for later retrieval

Chargeback and Dispute Fraud:

• Friendly Fraud: Legitimate customers falsely claiming non-receipt or unauthorized transactions

• First-Party Chargeback Abuse: Customers keeping products while successfully disputing charges

• False Quality Claims: Dishonest complaints about product condition to obtain refunds

• Return Fraud: Claiming defects or damage that don't exist to circumvent return policies

Account and Identity Fraud

Account Compromise:

• Credential Stuffing: Using stolen login credentials from data breaches

• Phishing Attacks: Tricking users into revealing account information

• Social Engineering: Manipulating customer service to gain unauthorized access

• Session Hijacking: Intercepting active user sessions to gain account control

Identity Theft and Impersonation:

• Document Forgery: Submitting altered or fabricated identity documents

• Business Impersonation: False representation as legitimate businesses

• Celebrity/Brand Impersonation: Unauthorized use of famous personalities or brands

• Fake Account Creation: Using stolen or synthetic identities for account registration

Marketplace and Seller Fraud

Intellectual Property Fraud:

• Copyright Infringement: Systematic uploading of copyrighted content without authorization

• Trademark Counterfeiting: Using protected brand names, logos, or designs illegally

• Design Theft: Copying other sellers' original artwork for unauthorized profit

• False IP Claims: Fraudulent intellectual property complaints to harm competitors

Performance Manipulation:

• Review Fraud: Fake reviews, review exchanges, or incentivized feedback systems

• Sales Manipulation: Coordinated fake purchases to boost rankings and visibility

• Metric Gaming: Artificial manipulation of performance indicators

• Competitive Sabotage: False reports or campaigns targeting legitimate sellers

Promotional and System Abuse

Discount and Promotion Fraud:

• Coupon Abuse: Using promotional codes beyond intended limits or restrictions

• Referral Fraud: Creating fake accounts to generate fraudulent referral bonuses

• Multi-Account Schemes: Operating multiple accounts to exploit promotions repeatedly

• Reseller Abuse: Unauthorized distribution or resale of single-use promotional codes

Technical Exploitation:

• Bot Activities: Automated systems for account creation, purchasing, or data scraping

• System Vulnerabilities: Exploiting technical weaknesses for unauthorized advantages

• Rate Limit Bypassing: Circumventing security measures through technical manipulation

• API Abuse: Unauthorized use of platform interfaces for fraudulent purposes

Our Fraud Prevention Systems

Advanced Detection Technology

Real-Time Transaction Analysis: Our AI-powered systems analyze every transaction using multiple data points:

Key Risk Factors:

• Payment method history and validation status

• Account age, verification level, and transaction patterns

• Geographic consistency and device fingerprinting

• Order characteristics and behavioral anomalies

• Network analysis and IP reputation scoring

Machine Learning Models:

• Pattern Recognition: Identification of fraudulent behavior patterns across accounts and time

• Anomaly Detection: Recognition of activities deviating from established user baselines

• Predictive Analytics: Forecasting fraud likelihood based on historical data and trends

• Network Analysis: Detection of coordinated fraud rings and related account activities

Multi-Layer Security Controls

Payment Verification Systems:

• Address Verification Service (AVS): Matching billing addresses with card issuer records

• Card Verification Value (CVV/CVC): Confirming security codes for card-present verification

• 3D Secure Authentication: Additional verification layer for online transactions (Visa Secure, Mastercard Identity Check)

• Tokenization: Replacing sensitive payment data with secure, encrypted tokens

• BIN Analysis: Bank Identification Number validation and risk assessment

Device and Network Security:

• Device Fingerprinting: Comprehensive device identification including hardware and software characteristics

• IP Reputation Analysis: Real-time assessment of IP addresses against fraud databases

• Geolocation Verification: Consistency checking between stated location and actual geographic position

• VPN/Proxy Detection: Identification of anonymization tools often used in fraudulent activities

• Behavioral Biometrics: Analysis of user interaction patterns including typing speed and mouse movements

Human Expert Review

Specialized Fraud Investigation Team:

• Certified Fraud Examiners (CFE): Professional investigators with specialized training

• Payment Industry Veterans: Experts with extensive experience in financial crime prevention

• International Compliance Specialists: Knowledge of global regulations and cross-border fraud

• Technical Forensics Analysts: Digital investigation capabilities for complex schemes

Manual Review Procedures:

• Risk-Based Assessment: Human evaluation of transactions flagged by automated systems

• Evidence Analysis: Comprehensive review of transaction data, communications, and patterns

• Cross-Reference Verification: Validation against multiple databases and external sources

• Case Documentation: Detailed investigation records for legal proceedings and appeals

Risk Assessment Framework

Dynamic Risk Scoring

Account Risk Categories:

Transaction Risk Factors:

High-Risk Indicators:

• First-time large orders from new accounts

• Multiple failed payment attempts

• Shipping to freight forwarders or high-risk locations

• Unusual order patterns or product combinations

• Geographic inconsistencies between IP, billing, and shipping

Protective Factors:

• Long-standing account with positive history

• Consistent device and location patterns

• Successful previous transactions

• Complete account verification

• Normal user behavior patterns

Automated Response Systems

Real-Time Actions Based on Risk Assessment:

• Instant Approval: Low-risk transactions processed immediately

• Enhanced Verification: Medium-risk orders requiring additional authentication

• Manual Review Hold: High-risk transactions queued for human investigation

• Automatic Block: Critical-risk activities prevented with immediate notification

• Account Restrictions: Temporary limitations pending investigation resolution

User Responsibilities and Education

Customer Security Best Practices

Account Protection:

• Strong Authentication: Use unique, complex passwords and enable two-factor authentication

• Regular Monitoring: Check account activity and payment statements frequently

• Secure Connections: Avoid public Wi-Fi for transactions and use updated browsers

• Phishing Awareness: Never share passwords or sensitive information via unsecured channels

• Prompt Reporting: Immediately report suspicious activities or unauthorized access

Transaction Security:

• Accurate Information: Ensure billing and shipping addresses are correct and current

• Payment Method Security: Use only payment methods you control and monitor

• Order Verification: Review order confirmations and shipping notifications carefully

• Communication Vigilance: Be cautious of unsolicited communications claiming to be from Merchifies

Seller Protection Guidelines

Account Security:

• Access Controls: Protect login credentials and limit account access to authorized personnel

• Regular Reviews: Monitor seller dashboard for unusual orders or performance changes

• Verification Maintenance: Keep account verification information current and accurate

• Communication Security: Use only official Merchifies channels for sensitive communications

Order Management:

• Risk Assessment: Review high-value or unusual orders before fulfillment

• Documentation: Maintain detailed records of orders, communications, and shipping

• Policy Compliance: Ensure product descriptions are accurate and fulfill orders as promised

• Prompt Reporting: Report suspicious buyer behavior or potential fraud attempts immediately

Training and Awareness Programs

Educational Resources:

• Fraud Prevention Guides: Comprehensive resources on recognizing and preventing fraud

• Webinar Series: Regular training sessions on emerging threats and best practices

• Industry Updates: Information about new fraud trends and prevention techniques

• Case Studies: Real-world examples of fraud attempts and successful prevention

Ongoing Support:

• Dedicated Training Team: Specialists available for fraud prevention education

• Regular Communications: Updates on new threats, policies, and prevention measures

• Community Forums: Peer-to-peer learning and experience sharing

• Professional Development: Support for fraud prevention certifications and training

Reporting Fraudulent Activity

Immediate Reporting Channels

Emergency Fraud Hotline:

• Email: [email protected] (monitored 24/7)

• Response Time: Immediate acknowledgment, investigation within 2 hours for critical issues

• Use For: Active fraud, account compromise, unauthorized transactions, security breaches

Online Reporting:

• Fraud Report Form: merchifies.com/report-fraud

• Secure Upload: Encrypted file transfer for sensitive evidence

• Case Tracking: Automated reference numbers for follow-up

• Status Updates: Regular communication on investigation progress

Information to Provide When Reporting

Essential Details:

• Contact Information: Your name, email, phone number, and account details

• Incident Description: Detailed explanation of the fraudulent activity observed

• Timeline: When the activity occurred and when you discovered it

• Evidence: Screenshots, transaction IDs, communication logs, or other documentation

• Impact Assessment: Financial losses, account access issues, or other consequences

Supporting Documentation:

• Transaction Records: Order numbers, payment confirmations, shipping tracking

• Communication Logs: Emails, chat transcripts, or phone call records

• Account Changes: Unauthorized modifications to account settings or information

• External Evidence: Bank statements, credit reports, or law enforcement reports

Investigation Process

Initial Response (0-2 hours):

• Acknowledgment: Confirmation of report receipt with case reference number

• Immediate Protection: Account security measures if compromise suspected

• Evidence Preservation: Securing relevant data and preventing further damage

• Risk Assessment: Initial evaluation of threat level and required response

Full Investigation (24-72 hours):

• Evidence Analysis: Comprehensive review of all available information

• Pattern Identification: Cross-referencing with known fraud indicators and networks

• External Coordination: Collaboration with payment processors, law enforcement, or other platforms

• Resolution Planning: Development of appropriate response and prevention measures

Enforcement and Consequences

Progressive Enforcement Framework

Level 1: Enhanced Monitoring

• Increased Scrutiny: Additional verification for future transactions

• Transaction Limits: Temporary restrictions on order values and frequency

• Documentation Requirements: Enhanced identity and payment verification

• Educational Resources: Mandatory fraud prevention training and policy review

Level 2: Account Restrictions

• Feature Limitations: Restricted access to certain platform capabilities

• Payment Holds: Temporary suspension of payouts pending investigation

• Manual Approval: Human review required for all account activities

• Probationary Period: Extended monitoring with specific compliance requirements

Level 3: Account Suspension

• Temporary Lockdown: Complete account suspension for 30-90 days

• Asset Freeze: Hold on all funds and pending transactions

• Investigation Cooperation: Required participation in fraud investigation

• Rehabilitation Conditions: Specific requirements for potential account restoration

Level 4: Permanent Termination

• Account Closure: Permanent marketplace removal with data retention

• Asset Forfeiture: Loss of funds for confirmed fraudulent activities

• Legal Referral: Criminal and civil prosecution for significant cases

• Industry Blacklisting: Reporting to fraud databases and partner platforms

Immediate Actions for Severe Violations

Zero Tolerance Enforcement:

• Child Exploitation: Immediate termination and law enforcement reporting

• Terrorism/Violence: Account closure and appropriate authority notification

• Large-Scale Fraud: Asset seizure and comprehensive legal action

• Identity Theft Rings: Coordination with federal law enforcement agencies

Financial Consequences:

• Chargeback Liability: Sellers responsible for fraudulent transaction costs

• Investigation Costs: Recovery of expenses for complex fraud cases

• Damage Compensation: Restitution for losses caused by fraudulent activities

• Legal Fees: Recovery of costs for successful legal proceedings

Legal and Regulatory Compliance

Financial Crime Prevention

Anti-Money Laundering (AML) Compliance:

• Customer Due Diligence: Enhanced verification for high-risk accounts and transactions

• Suspicious Activity Reporting: Filing SARs with FinCEN for qualifying activities

• Transaction Monitoring: Ongoing surveillance for unusual patterns or behaviors

• Record Keeping: Comprehensive documentation for regulatory examination and legal proceedings

Sanctions and Export Control:

• OFAC Screening: Real-time checking against Office of Foreign Assets Control lists

• International Sanctions: Compliance with EU, UK, UN, and other sanctions regimes

• Export Restrictions: Adherence to export control laws for restricted technologies or destinations

• Prohibited Countries: Blocking transactions to sanctioned territories and entities

Data Protection and Privacy

Privacy Law Compliance:

• GDPR (EU/UK): Lawful basis for fraud prevention processing under legitimate interests

• CCPA/CPRA (California): Permitted use for security and fraud prevention purposes

• International Standards: Adherence to privacy laws in all operational jurisdictions

• Data Minimization: Collection and retention of only necessary information for fraud prevention

Automated Decision-Making Rights:

• Human Review Rights: EU/UK residents can request human evaluation of automated fraud decisions

• Decision Explanation: Provision of meaningful information about automated processing logic

• Appeal Procedures: Fair process for challenging fraud determinations and penalties

• Due Process Protection: Comprehensive procedures ensuring fair treatment and legal compliance

Payment Industry Standards

PCI DSS Compliance:

• Level 1 Certification: Highest level of payment card industry security standards

• Secure Data Handling: Comprehensive protection of cardholder information

• Network Security: Advanced firewalls, encryption, and access controls

• Regular Assessment: Quarterly security scans and annual compliance validation

Card Network Compliance:

• Visa/Mastercard Rules: Adherence to operating regulations and fraud prevention requirements

• Chargeback Programs: Participation in card network dispute resolution procedures

• Risk Monitoring: Compliance with transaction monitoring and reporting requirements

• Merchant Protection: Utilization of available fraud prevention tools and programs

Contact Information

Emergency Fraud Response

24/7 Fraud Hotline:

• Email: [email protected]

• Response: Immediate acknowledgment, 2-hour investigation for critical issues

• Use For: Active fraud, account compromise, unauthorized transactions

Security Incident Response:

• Email: [email protected]

• Response: 1-hour acknowledgment, immediate action for active threats

• Use For: System security issues, data breaches, technical vulnerabilities

Specialized Support Services

Fraud Investigation Team:

• Email: [email protected]

• Services: Complex case investigation, evidence analysis, law enforcement coordination

• Response: 24 hours for investigation requests

Chargeback and Dispute Support:

• Email: [email protected]

• Services: Dispute defense, payment processor coordination, evidence compilation

• Response: 24 hours for dispute notifications

Legal and Compliance:

• Email: [email protected]

• Services: Regulatory reporting, law enforcement cooperation, legal proceedings

• Response: 5-7 business days for routine matters, immediate for emergencies

General Support

Customer Service:

• Email: [email protected]

• Hours: Monday-Friday, 9 AM - 5 PM Mountain Time

• Use For: General fraud questions, policy clarification, non-urgent concerns

International Support:

• Email: [email protected]

• Services: Cross-border fraud issues, international compliance, regional requirements

• Languages: English, Spanish, French, German support available

Policy Updates and Continuous Improvement

Regular Policy Review

Update Schedule:

• Quarterly Reviews: Assessment of fraud trends and policy effectiveness

• Annual Overhaul: Comprehensive policy evaluation and enhancement

• Emergency Updates: Immediate changes for new threats or regulatory requirements

• Stakeholder Input: Regular feedback collection from users, partners, and experts

Communication of Changes:

• Advance Notice: 30-day notification for material policy changes

• Multiple Channels: Email, website announcements, and platform notifications

• Impact Explanation: Clear description of how changes affect users

• Transition Support: Additional resources during significant policy updates

Continuous Improvement Process

Technology Enhancement:

• AI Model Refinement: Ongoing optimization of fraud detection algorithms

• System Integration: Improved coordination between security and operational systems

• Emerging Threat Response: Rapid adaptation to new fraud techniques and vulnerabilities

• User Experience Balance: Optimization of security measures without compromising usability

Industry Collaboration:

• Best Practices Sharing: Contribution to industry fraud prevention knowledge

• Threat Intelligence Exchange: Participation in fraud information sharing networks

• Regulatory Engagement: Active involvement in policy development and compliance initiatives

• Research Investment: Support for academic and industry fraud prevention research

This Anti-Fraud Policy represents our comprehensive commitment to maintaining a secure, trustworthy marketplace. Through advanced technology, expert human oversight, and strong partnerships with law enforcement and industry, we work tirelessly to stay ahead of evolving fraud threats and protect our entire community.

Report fraud immediately: [email protected]

Merchifies Global LLC
30 N Gould St, Ste N
Sheridan, WY 82801
United States

Anti-Fraud Department:

• Emergency Hotline: [email protected]

• Investigations: [email protected]

• Security: [email protected]

• Disputes: [email protected]

• Legal: [email protected]

Last Updated: 01/01/2025
This policy is continuously updated to address emerging fraud threats and regulatory requirements. All users are responsible for staying informed of policy updates and cooperating with fraud prevention measures.

Accessibility Statement: If you need this policy in an alternative format or require assistance due to a disability, please contact [email protected]