man reviewing data in an open office to stop first party fraud

How AI is taking the lead in first-party fraud detection 

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What is first-party fraud?  

First-party fraud, is an act that involves the consumer intentionally providing false information to access goods, services or credit without intent to pay First-party fraud is a major concern for merchants of all shapes and sizes. In fact, according to a recent Mastercard chargeback trends and outlooks report, 75% of digital goods merchants’ card-not-present fraud is estimated to be the result of first-party fraud.  


Article at a glance

  • First-party fraud is increasingly prevalent for merchants within the e-commerce industry.  
  • Traditional methods of first-party fraud detection are insufficient, relying too much on static data. 
  • Artificial intelligence is revolutionizing first-party fraud detection, analyzing vast datasets with greater accuracy, saving time and resources.  
  • To leverage AI’s potential, businesses must adopt robust data management practices, thereby staying ahead of fraudsters, protecting assets and maintaining customer trust.

Unfortunately, traditional methods to mitigate these attacks fall short, with the “friendliest” fraudsters growing more sophisticated by the day. Thankfully, the emergence of artificial intelligence fraud detection is proving to be a formidable ally in identifying first-party fraud.  

AI fraud detection

Why is AI key in first-party fraud detection? 

Artificial intelligence in first-party fraud detection is pivotal due to its dynamic nature and ability to process large volumes of data quickly and accurately. Unlike traditional programs that rely on static, deterministic data, artificial intelligence fraud detection platforms leverage machine learning and predictive analytics. Machine learning models are trained on labeled datasets to recognize known fraud patterns (supervised learning) and detect unusual behaviors that deviate from the norm (unsupervised learning). Predictive analytics then leverages these machine learning models to forecast the likelihood of future fraud, assigning risk scores to transactions or user behaviors.  

The benefit of this integration enables real-time, accurate, scalable and cost-effective first-party fraud detection. Because artificial intelligence models analyze such vast datasets with greater accuracy than manual methods, immediate identification is possible, predicting fraud before it escalates, saving significant time and resources.   

What about data management for artificial intelligence fraud detection?  

Of course, for businesses to effectively deploy artificial intelligence in fraud detection, they must also subscribe to robust data management practices. Here are key considerations to keep in mind: 

1. Data quality 

Ensuring data quality is crucial for effective artificial intelligence models in first-party fraud detection, as they rely heavily on accurate and up-to-date information. Accurate data is essential because erroneous data can lead to incorrect predictions, while comprehensive datasets provide a holistic view that enables artificial intelligence to make better-informed decisions. 

2. Data integration 

Integrating data from various sources such as transaction records, user profiles and external databases enables artificial intelligence models to cross-reference information and detect inconsistences that might indicate first-party fraud.  

3. Data security 

Naturally, since fraud detection involves the handling of personal and financial data, protecting sensitive information through encryption and access controls is important to prevent data breaches.  

4. Continuous monitoring and updating  

Continuously monitoring and updating artificial intelligence fraud detection models with new data and fraud patterns ensure they remain effective against evolving threats and enables businesses to fine-tune their approach to first-party fraud detection and improve accuracy over time. In fact, the more data businesses feed artificial intelligence, the better its predictions.  

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In closing 

Artificial intelligence is revolutionizing businesses’ approach to first-party fraud detection. Its ability to analyze so much data, adapt to new tactics and provide real-time insights make it an indispensable tool in the fight against any type of fraud. Still, to fully leverage the potential of artificial intelligence, businesses must adopt robust data management practices that ensure data quality, integration and security. This way businesses will not only stay ahead of fraudsters but will also protect their own assets and maintain trust with their customers.  

As artificial intelligence evolves so too will its role in fraud detection expand, offering even more tools and techniques to fight scammers. Therefore, businesses that embrace these artificial intelligence fraud detection technologies and practices today will be better positioned to navigate the complexities of first-party fraud detection and prevention tomorrow.  

Discover how Mastercard’s First-Party Trust Program is helping prevent first-party fraud and the burden it places on stakeholders, while securing the payments ecosystem for all.


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