Can I use a chargeback to recover funds from unauthorized Pinterest Ads charges?

Yes, you can use a chargeback to recover funds from unauthorized Pinterest Ads charges, but it should be a last resort after exhausting other options. Here's a breakdown of how chargebacks work in this situation, as well as the risks and steps you should follow.

🚨 When Should You Consider a Chargeback?
A chargeback is typically used when there's a dispute over an unauthorized charge. This might include situations such as:

Unauthorized ads: If someone gained access to your account and ran ads without your permission.

Fraudulent charges: If your payment method was compromised and used for Pinterest Ads.

Unresolved billing issues: If you've contacted Pinterest support for a refund, but the issue is still not resolved after several attempts.

A chargeback can be initiated through your VCC provider (or credit card issuer), and they will investigate the dispute on your behalf.

🛠� Steps to Take Before Initiating a Chargeback
Contact Pinterest Ads Support First:

Go to: Pinterest Ads Support

Choose: Advertiser → Billing & Payments → Unauthorized charge

Explain the situation clearly, providing:

Transaction details (date, amount)

Reason why you believe it's unauthorized

Account activity screenshots (e.g., campaign reports)

Pinterest's support team will likely investigate and may be able to reverse or adjust the charges for you.

Wait for the Refund Process:
If Pinterest confirms the charge is an error or fraud, they may process the refund directly, saving you from the chargeback process.

🚫 Risks of Initiating a Chargeback
While chargebacks can protect your funds, they come with some potential risks:

Risk   Impact
🚫 Account suspension   Pinterest may flag your account if they see chargebacks or disputes, which can lead to temporary or permanent suspension of your account.
🕰� Time-sensitive   Chargebacks typically need to be filed within 60–120 days of the transaction, depending on your card issuer.
💳 Fees for chargeback   Some VCC providers or credit card companies may charge fees for initiating a chargeback.
🔄 Dispute resolution delay   The chargeback process can take several weeks to resolve. During this time, Pinterest will investigate your claim.
✅ Steps to File a Chargeback for Pinterest Ads
If you've exhausted all other options, here's how to initiate a chargeback:

Contact Your VCC Provider or Bank:

Visit the website or app for your card issuer.

Locate the transaction you want to dispute and look for a dispute or chargeback option.

Provide Supporting Information: You will typically need to submit:

Details of the transaction (including amount, date, and description)

Evidence that the charge was unauthorized (e.g., Pinterest Ads account showing no campaign activity or fraudulent activity)

Follow Up:

The payment processor will initiate the dispute process and reach out to Pinterest.

You may be required to provide additional documentation or clarify the nature of the dispute.

Wait for Resolution:

This process can take anywhere from a few weeks to several months depending on your card issuer and Pinterest's response.

🧠 Pro Tip: Preventing Unauthorized Charges
To avoid unauthorized charges in the future:

Enable two-factor authentication (2FA) on your Pinterest Ads account for added security.

Regularly check your payment methods in Pinterest Ads to make sure everything is accurate.

Set up spending limits or alerts with your VCC provider to monitor and control charges.

✅ Summary:
If Pinterest Ads has made unauthorized charges, a chargeback through your VCC or credit card issuer is an option, but it should only be used after contacting Pinterest support and giving them time to resolve the issue. Be aware that initiating a chargeback can risk account suspension and might take several weeks for resolution.