What happens if Pinterest Ads detects multiple VCCs linked to different accounts?

If Pinterest Ads detects multiple Virtual Credit Cards (VCCs) linked to different accounts, it may raise red flags for fraud detection systems and could result in various actions. Here's what might happen:

🚨 Potential Consequences of Using Multiple VCCs Across Different Accounts
1. Account Suspension or Banning
Pinterest's fraud prevention system is designed to detect suspicious activity. If it identifies multiple accounts associated with the same VCC or multiple VCCs being used across different accounts (especially if the accounts show suspicious activity), it might flag those accounts for violating Pinterest's Terms of Service.

This could lead to suspension or banning of the accounts involved, particularly if Pinterest believes the accounts are being used to circumvent policy violations (e.g., avoiding a ban, chargebacks, or other prohibited activities).

2. Linked Accounts Detection
Pinterest uses a combination of IP addresses, payment methods, device IDs, and account details to track activities. If the same VCC is linked to multiple accounts, Pinterest may detect that these accounts are linked (even if other account details like emails or names differ).

If Pinterest detects suspicious patterns, it could flag the accounts as high risk or even suspend them for further investigation.

3. Risk of Blacklisting the VCC
If Pinterest detects that a VCC is being used across multiple accounts, especially if there have been any chargebacks, fraudulent activity, or policy violations associated with that card, it could result in the VCC being blacklisted from use across Pinterest Ads accounts.

A blacklisted VCC would be rejected in future attempts to link it to any Pinterest Ads account, making it difficult to run campaigns.

4. Suspicious Payment Method Flags
If Pinterest detects a pattern of multiple VCCs being used across different accounts, it may flag the payment methods as high risk. This may not only impact the accounts using the VCCs but could also affect the reputation of the card issuer, especially if multiple fraudulent activities are linked to those VCCs.

This could lead to payment failures or issues with funding future ad campaigns, as Pinterest will likely block high-risk VCCs.

5. Potential Violation of Pinterest's Terms of Service
Pinterest's advertising policies prohibit fraudulent or deceptive behavior, including using multiple accounts to evade penalties or violate policies. If you are found to be using multiple VCCs to create different accounts for purposes that go against Pinterest's policies (e.g., creating multiple accounts to bypass a ban), it can result in severe penalties like permanent account bans.

Creating multiple accounts to manipulate ad performance or avoid policy enforcement (such as repeated bans or policy violations) could be considered violating the terms.

✅ What to Do If You Need to Use Multiple Accounts
1. Stick to One Account per Business
If possible, avoid creating multiple accounts for the same business or purpose. Stick to one Pinterest Ads account to avoid complications related to VCCs and account tracking.

2. Contact Pinterest Ads Support
If you must use multiple accounts (for example, for different brands or regions), reach out to Pinterest Ads Support to clarify the situation and ensure that you're compliant with Pinterest's policies. They can advise you on how to manage your accounts without risking suspension or banning.

3. Use Different Payment Methods for Different Accounts
If you absolutely need to use multiple accounts, avoid using the same VCC across different accounts. Instead, use different payment methods (e.g., different VCCs, credit cards, or PayPal accounts) for each account to avoid linking them together.

4. Avoid Fraudulent Activity
Ensure that all activities, campaigns, and accounts adhere to Pinterest's advertising policies. This includes using valid payment methods, avoiding chargebacks, and staying clear of any activity that could be flagged as fraudulent.

5. Resolve Any Previous Issues with Your VCCs
If a previous account or VCC was banned due to fraudulent activities or payment issues, try to resolve those issues before creating or linking any new accounts. Rebuilding trust with Pinterest may take time and effort, so ensure your payment methods are fully legitimate and verified.

✅ Summary
If Pinterest detects multiple VCCs linked to different accounts, it can lead to account suspension, payment method flags, and possible banning of those accounts. To avoid issues, use unique payment methods for each account, ensure compliance with Pinterest's advertising policies, and reach out to Pinterest Ads support if needed.