What is Address Verification Service (AVS)?
AVS is an identity verification tool that helps businesses identify and prevent potential fraud in credit or debit card transactions. It works by comparing the billing address provided by the customer with the one on record for the card to ensure they match.
How AVS Works with Airwallex
When a customer makes an online purchase and provides their billing address, the AVS system in Airwallex compares the numeric portions of the provided address (street number and ZIP code) against the information on file with the card issuer. The result of this comparison generates an AVS response code, which indicates the level of match:
• Full Match: Both the street number and ZIP code match.
• Partial Match: Either the street number or ZIP code matches.
• No Match: Neither the street number nor ZIP code matches.
• Unavailable: The card issuer does not support AVS.
For more detailed AVS response codes especially for merchants using our API products please refer to AVS Codes
Benefits of AVS with Airwallex
- Enhanced Fraud Prevention: AVS helps Airwallex reduce the risk of fraudulent transactions by verifying billing addresses.
- Reduction in Chargebacks: Accurate address verification can help minimize chargebacks related to unauthorized transactions.
- More Sales: AVS helps merchants improve their card success rates and hence results in higher sales for merchants
- Increased Customer Trust: Customers feel more secure knowing their billing information is being verified through AVS.
AVS Limitations
Despite its advantages, AVS has certain limitations. Not all countries support AVS, which can affect its effectiveness, particularly for international transactions. AVS is widely supported in the United States, Canada, Australia, New Zealand and the United Kingdom.