When your card is swiped at a merchant or you enter your number into the computer when buying online, the information is transmitted to third parties that process that information so we can accept your transaction. A criminal may be able to gain access to your card information through one of the entities involved with processing your transaction, including the merchant. While fraud resulting from data compromises is rare, it's important to understand that you're protected with Visa's Zero Liability policy, which means you pay nothing for unauthorized purchases on your account.