Understanding key acronyms and tools is essential for merchants aiming to safeguard transactions and reduce fraud. Address Verification Services (AVS), Card ID Verification (CVC), and 3-D Secure 2 (3DS2) are three critical tools that should be on every merchant’s radar in 2025. These services are integral to the fraud prevention strategies offered by First Atlantic Commerce, helping businesses mitigate risks and maximize online sales.
What Are AVS, CVC, and 3DS2?
Address Verification Services (AVS): AVS is a fraud prevention tool that matches the billing address provided during a transaction to the billing address on file with the credit card issuer. This simple comparison adds an extra layer of protection, helping merchants identify discrepancies that could indicate fraudulent activity.
Card Verification Code (CVC): The CVC is a security code printed on a credit card (CVV2 for Visa, CVC2 for MasterCard®, and CID for American Express). It confirms that the buyer has physical possession of the card, reducing the likelihood of fraud in card-not-present (CNP) transactions.
3-D Secure 2 (3DS2): 3DS2 is a multi-factor authentication protocol designed to enhance the security of online transactions. It enables merchants to verify the identity of cardholders in real-time, providing a seamless checkout experience while reducing fraud and chargebacks. The protocol is particularly effective in detecting suspicious activities and is a cornerstone of secure e-commerce in 2025.
How First Atlantic Commerce Supports Merchants
First Atlantic Commerce provides online merchants with the ability to integrate AVS, CVC, and 3DS2 into their payment processes. Transactions are screened and processed in real-time, enabling merchants to act immediately if suspicious activity is detected. This proactive approach not only helps prevent fraud but also reduces the risk of chargebacks—an issue that can be costly and time-consuming for businesses.
Key Benefits of AVS, CVC, and 3DS2 Services
Fraud Mitigation: AVS, CVC, and 3DS2 work together to screen for fraud by verifying essential transaction details, offering a critical defense against CNP fraud.
Chargeback Reduction: By identifying potentially fraudulent transactions upfront, merchants can minimize the risk of chargebacks, which can harm their bottom line and reputation.
Enhanced Authentication: 3DS2 provides dynamic, real-time authentication, reducing friction for genuine customers while flagging suspicious activities.
Global Merchant Support: These tools are particularly beneficial for global merchants dealing with North American cardholders, where AVS, CVC, and 3DS2 are widely used and trusted.
Ease of Integration: First Atlantic Commerce ensures a seamless and quick setup, allowing merchants to start protecting their transactions almost immediately.
Real-Time Screening: Transactions are screened in real-time, empowering merchants to take swift action when necessary.
Pre-Authorization Requests: Merchants can submit pre-authorization requests alongside AVS, CVC, and 3DS2 data, adding an extra layer of security.
Why These Tools Matter in 2025
As online transactions continue to grow, so does the sophistication of fraudsters. AVS, CVC, and 3DS2 remain among the most effective tools for detecting and preventing fraud in the digital space. By leveraging these solutions, merchants can focus on growing their businesses while ensuring a safer shopping experience for their customers.
At First Atlantic Commerce, we’re dedicated to empowering merchants with robust, real-time fraud prevention tools. With AVS, CVC, and 3DS2, you’re not just screening transactions—you’re safeguarding your business and enhancing customer trust.
Take the next step in securing your online transactions with First Atlantic Commerce. Let AVS, CVC, and 3DS2 work for you in building a safer, more reliable digital marketplace.
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