Why is Square asking what the customer's language is when a card payment is declined?
Hey there Stamchoc,
I don't think that the question is directly coming from Square but, from the Credit Card Issuer. Square passes the Card Details to the Issuer - from there the transaction is either approved or not or the Card Issuer may need more info. Note, Square is the link between the Card Issuer and Card Owner - Square is charged a fee for this service too which is included with your processing fee.
From what I can uncover and I find this quite interesting:
Credit card companies may ask for a customer's language preference for several reasons:
* Customer Service: Credit card companies often have customer service representatives who can assist customers in different languages. By knowing a customer's preferred language, the company can route their inquiries or concerns to the appropriate representative who can effectively communicate and assist them.
* Communication: Credit card companies may need to send important communication, such as account statements, alerts, or promotional offers, to their customers. Knowing the customer's language preference ensures that these communications are sent in a language the customer understands, increasing the chances of engagement and comprehension.
* Legal Requirements: In some regions or countries, financial institutions are required by law to provide certain documents or information in the customer's preferred language. By collecting language preferences, credit card companies can comply with these regulations and ensure they are meeting the legal obligations of their customers' jurisdictions.
* Localization: Credit card companies may operate in multiple countries or cater to a diverse customer base. By collecting language preferences, they can customize their services, website, mobile app, and other communication channels to provide a more personalized and user-friendly experience for customers in different regions. It's important to note that providing language preferences is usually optional, and customers can choose the language they are most comfortable with.
jk
Thank you so much for the very informative response. All of those reasons make sense to me, it was just odd to see that query after a declined transaction. The customer shrugged it off but was a bit offended also. It's good to know what to say to the customer the next time this happens. Thanks again!
When ever a customer's card is declined - it is an issue. Personally, it has happened to me and it's an embarrassing to say the least because you know that there's nothing wrong with your card. And of course, you either don't have the cash to cover the cost or you don't have a backup credit card. Technology is your best friend when it's working and not your best friend when things go wrong. An old friend said that "Stuff Happens" sometimes - the bottom line, things do work out.
jk
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