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Friendly fraud, which occurs when legitimate customers dispute transactions post-purchase, is a growing issue for businesses. Often mistaken for true fraud, these disputes cost retailers $100 billion annually.11 Understanding this problem and how to combat it effectively is critical for businesses looking to thrive in today’s competitive marketplace.

The key to tackling friendly fraud lies in using precise methods


Historically, many businesses have employed traditional methods of dealing with friendly fraud, but these often fall short. Fraudulent transactions can slip through the cracks without pre-checks or a robust digital and behavioral identification process. Moreover, inadequate data elements fail to provide a comprehensive overview, making it difficult to spot friendly fraudsters before they complete their transactions. This results in higher chargebacks and increased logistics costs, ultimately squeezing profit margins.

In contrast, AI models can analyze patterns and detect anomalies in real time, effectively spotting potential fraudsters before they complete their transactions. This proactive approach helps lower chargeback rates and associated costs, allowing merchants to protect their profit margins while maintaining consumer confidence.

From data to defense: Learn the difference between AI models and machine learning


Why preventing friendly fraud matters in a digital-first world

For merchants, adopting AI-powered fraud management technology is not just about reducing losses; it’s about empowering their business. With the ability to operate confidently in a competitive environment, merchants can focus on what they do best — selling more, losing less, and maximizing margins.

Protect your business now: Get the top five strategies to prevent friendly fraud


Friendly fraud is a formidable challenge

As AI-powered solutions advance, businesses can look forward to a future where they can confidently safeguard their operations against fraudulent activities. By embracing these innovations, merchants can protect revenues and enhance the overall shopping experience for their customers.

Stay Secure
Stopping scammers starts with you and the technology you choose to trust. Built for security, ACI Worldwide’s platform integrates precision-led detection with real-time dashboards, allowing fraud teams to review and act on high-confidence recommendations. This leads to fewer false positives and more targeted interventions. See it in action — book a demo today.

Sources:

  1. Return fraud: The $100 billion problem facing retailers ↩︎
Product Manager

A dedicated and results-driven product manager with nearly 15 years of experience, specializing in risk analysis and fraud prevention. With a robust foundation as a risk analyst, Olga has exceptional skills and a keen eye for identifying and mitigating risks for global merchants. As a certified fraud professional, she brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise, ensuring the highest standards of integrity and security in product development.