# gateway.fraud.suspected_fraud

> For the complete machine-readable documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://apidocs.chargebee.com/llms.txt).


**gateway**

The payment was declined because the account is suspected of fraudulent activity. This happens when the payment gateway or processor detects signs of unauthorized access, compromised payment credentials, high-risk transaction behavior, or patterns matching known fraud indicators.

## Recommended Customer Message

We're unable to process your payment at this time. Please try a different payment method or contact your bank for assistance.

## Root Cause[](#root-cause)

-   **Unauthorized account access:** Unusual login attempts, changes to account information, or abnormal transaction behavior indicate potential account compromise.
-   **Compromised payment credentials:** Stored payment methods may have been accessed or used without authorization.
-   **High-risk transaction behavior:** Multiple failed payment attempts, transactions from suspicious IP addresses, or sudden high-value purchases trigger fraud detection systems.
-   **Known fraud patterns detected:** The activity matches known patterns of fraudulent behavior identified by the payment gateway or fraud prevention systems.

## Troubleshooting and Solutions[](#troubleshooting-and-solutions)

-   Immediately lock or suspend the customer's account to prevent further unauthorized activity.
-   Contact the customer directly to verify their identity and confirm recent account activity.
-   Suggest the customer review and remove any unfamiliar or unauthorized payment methods linked to their account.
-   Enable 3D Secure authentication to authenticate customers and reduce fraud attempts.
-   Consult your fraud prevention team or payment gateway provider to analyze the activity further and update fraud detection rules if needed.