posted on December 25, 2000 12:33:01 PM
I recently received a notice from Billpoint that, after 2 months, one of my sales was being subjected to a chargeback. This was an international transaction. I called Billpoint, and they said it was a case of credit card fraud.
Fortunately, it was only $50. They charged me another $10 "investigation" fee, and withdrew the money from my bank account.
I wasn't too happy, but I knew that I was taking a chance by accepting international transactions. Billpoint specifically says that they can not verify addresses on international transactions.
But then I started thinking this thing through. This was for the sale of a domain name. Why would someone buy a domain name with a stolen card. All it would accomplish would be transferring the domain to the card holder.
So I checked it out. The name on the chargeback notification was different from the name on the original Billpoint order.
I called Billpoint to see what the deal was, but apparently the one person who handles this was on vacation so I had to leave a messge.
In the mean time, I decided to contact the "buyer" -- the person who had committed the fraud. I told him that I needed to get his address again to complete the domain transfer. He emailed back and said that he would like a REFUND. So I said, "No problem. I just need your address." He sent it. Unbelievable.
So when I finally got in touch with Billpoint, my first question was "how did this happen?" I mean, I know that they can't verify addresses, but they AT LEAST verify the NAME on the card, right? Nope. They do no verification of any kind. Not even the card holder's name.
Well, then, at least they will be able to get this guy. I asked if I should forward my correspondence with him. After all, he had just given me his home address. She said, no, they were really not interested in pursuing it.
I was really astounded. It looks like Billpoint is just asking to be the victim of fraud. I mean, no verification, and absolutely no follow up when a fraud is uncovered. What more could a scammer ask for?
But why would Billpoint intentionally subject themselves to this? Probably because the make more money from a fraudulent transaction than they do from a valid one. I mean, what exactly is that $10 "investigation" fee for, when they are clearly not interested in investigationg anything?
I still have to think that I'm missing something. I can't believe that Billpoint would so openly invite fraud. But apparently they do.
I am sending the Billpoint rep who handled this a copy of this post as well as a link to this thread....
[ edited by amalgamated2000 on Dec 25, 2000 12:34 PM ]
posted on December 25, 2000 12:44:41 PM
P.S. I am still in contact with the "buyer." Any suggestions on ways to get back at him -- legally, of course -- would be greatly appreciated.
posted on December 25, 2000 12:46:04 PM
thats why I do not use billpoint for my sales.3 to 12 months later they ask you some information on a sale you made because the buyer is saying it is fraud and is asking for a chargeback.after the rape
( CHARGEBACK ) they also take your money back from your bank account and CHARGE you an EXTRA $10 for the trouble.
