Unknown transaction guide

How to investigate an unrecognized online purchase

Identify an unfamiliar online charge, protect your payment account and organize the evidence needed to report it.

Do not guess the merchant from a shortened billing descriptor. Check receipts, family purchases and platform order histories while protecting the payment account promptly.

Steps to take

1
Record the exact billing descriptor, date, amount and currency.
2
Search your email and relevant app-store or marketplace order histories.
3
Check whether an authorized family member or second account made the purchase.
4
Contact the merchant or platform through an official channel.
5
If it remains unauthorized, secure the account and contact the payment provider promptly.

Common questions

Is an unrecognized charge always fraud?

Not necessarily. Billing descriptors can differ from brand names, and purchases may come from another account or household member. Investigate promptly without assuming the cause.

What details should I hide in uploaded evidence?

Do not expose full card numbers, passwords, security codes or unrelated personal information. Keep only the details needed to identify the transaction.

Check your own case

Enter your charge details and organize your evidence without connecting your bank account.

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Last reviewed September 11, 2026. General information only; refund eligibility and deadlines depend on the seller, payment route and location.