Reason codes / MATCH codes / MATCH 14: Identity Theft
MATCH code 14: Identity Theft
Official definition and what it means for your removal request.
Definition
The Acquirer has reason to believe that the identity of the listed Merchant or its principal owners was unlawfully assumed for the purpose of unlawfully entering into a Merchant Agreement.
What this means in plain language
Someone appears to have opened or run the merchant account using stolen or faked identities for owners or the business itself—classic identity theft in an onboarding context. The acquirer believes the real people listed did not legitimately agree to the account.
What you can do
If you were listed under MATCH code 14, you can submit a formal removal request to the PSP or acquirer that added you. They will review your case (cause, remediation, corrective actions) and, if satisfied, can request removal from the MATCH list. We help you draft and submit that request. See MATCH list removal and all MATCH and VMSS reason codes.
Removal guides by PSP
The approach to removal depends on which PSP or acquirer listed you. See our PSP-specific guides: