So now that you're hyped up about the returns you're going to get by accepting credit cards, we have to bring up an unpleasant reality. Credit card fraud. We've all been afraid of having our credit cards stolen or, worse, our identities. But what about when you're the merchant on the losing end of a credit card scam?

In 2007 the dollar amount stolen through credit/debit card fraud numbered in the billions. Part of these fraudulent sales occured because scam artists of this sort have become very technologically savvy. But much of it could have been prevented by simply heeding warning signs.

Although YahooStoreMerchantAccount.com does everything in our power to protect our clients, we can't be present at the point of sale. Which means it is your responsibility to detect certain signs. We've put together a list of these signs below.

Warning Signs when a credit card is present (ie. retail, restaurant, wireless)

1. A customer makes a large purchase w/out asking any questions.

2. A large purchase is made just after the store opens or as the store is closing.

3. Someone purchases merchandise in large quantities but doesn't care about details (colors, sizes, styles).

4. A client refuses free delivery for large items.

5. The customer tries to distract you during or rush you through the sale.

6. A person purchases, leaves the store, then returns to purchase more.

Online warning signs can be a little more touchy because you can't see the card or the customer. Generally if one or more of the following signs applies to an online transaction, you could be dealing with possible fraud.

Warning Signs when credit card is NOT present (online sales)

1. Orders for high dollar items.

2. Orders for several of the same item.

3. Large orders.

4. First time shoppers.

5. A customer wants rushed shipping.

6. Orders being shipped to international locations.

7. Several different transactions placed on the same card within a short time period.

8. Transactions placed on different cards but sent to one address.

9. Different transactions placed with similar account numbers.

10. Shopper has one billing address but several shipping addresses.

11. Sales that are placed on multiple cards from one IP (Internet Protocol) address.

12. Customers who use a free email address (ie. hotmail, yahoo).

Just a word in closing; it's YOUR business. If a sale seems fishy and there's a lot at stake, go with your gut instinct and refuse the sale. No one can take that stand and, ultimately, protect your business except you.