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Viewpoints

Security

Today's data thieves are sophisticated in their technological prowess and in their understanding of the payment infrastructure. They are smart, nimble and determined — moving quickly to take advantage of new opportunities to perpetuate fraud globally.

The impact these criminals can have on commerce is real. Although fraud rates have remained stable, malfeasance erodes the trust of Visa’s customers — our cardholders and merchants. Put simply, today's criminals — data thieves, hackers, phishers and dumpster divers — are dangerous because they don't just steal money, they steal peace of mind.

Trust at Stake

To meet this threat, every entity with a stake in electronic payments must be fully committed to protecting the system. The fundamental trust that customers place in their choice of payment is at stake. At Visa, we believe nothing is more important than security and building trust among all stakeholders in the system.

Multiple Layers, No Weak Link

There is no "silver bullet" that will erase fraud. Visa's approach is based on the belief that the only effective way to fight fraud is to employ multiple layers of security. Criminals attack the payment system from many directions, using multiple tools and tactics. We work to protect each link within our control and work with others in the payment chain with an aim to help ensure there is no single point of failure.

Visa’s approach to security addresses all forms of fraud, including counterfeit, lost and stolen cards, card-not-present (ecommerce) and identity theft. That is what layers are all about — making sure that even if criminals succeed in breaching one layer, they find another locked door.

Peace of Mind

Each policy, process and technology within Visa's matrix of security works in concert with the others to achieve a single, critical goal: creating and maintaining the safest, most secure way to pay and offering our customers the peace of mind they need to use Visa with confidence.

Learn more about Visa's security layers and read about our approach to payment card security. For more information on securing the payment system and tips for protecting your card, visit your country's website.

More Information

Data Security Standards
• Visa Asia Pacific 
• Visa Canada 
• Visa Central Europe, Middle East and Africa 
• Visa Europe 
• Visa Latin America 
• Visa USA 

For Small Businesses, Learn How You Can Protect Your Business From Fraud …
Drop the Data 

Our Business

Visa’s network connects cardholders, merchants and financial institutions around the world. Read more...

Industry Resources

Find links to helpful industry resources and organizations for further background on electronic payments. Read more...

Visa Security Media Kit

Visa Security Media Kit

For more information about Visa’s approach to security, see our media kit for fact sheets, press releases and additional material.