At Citrus-Lime, we take the security of your business and your customers seriously. While we continue to support MOTO (Mail Order / Telephone Order) transactions, we strongly recommend using Payment Links as a safer, more compliant, and more customer-friendly option.
This guide explains why payment links are the preferred choice and how they help with compliance and fraud prevention.
What Are Payment Links?
A payment link is a URL link to a secure page that you can send to your customer via email or SMS. The customer clicks the link, enters their payment details on a trusted, encrypted payment page, and completes the transaction securely.
Unlike MOTO payments, where customers share their card details over the phone, payment links place control directly in the hands of your customer.
How do Payment Links work?
- Generate a payment link through Cloud POS.
- Send the link to your customer via email or SMS.
- Customer completes payment securely through the hosted payment page.
- Receive instant confirmation once the payment is complete.
When would you want to use a Payment Link?
Payment Links are ideal for any situation where the customer is not present in-store, including:
- Remote orders taken over the phone or through email
- Special orders or deposits
- Outstanding balances for repairs or services
Instead of requesting card details over the phone, simply send a secure link and let the customer complete the payment at their convenience.
What are the benefits of using Payment Links?
Enhanced Security and Customer Trust
- Customers enter their card details on a PCI DSS-compliant payment page.
- No sensitive data is spoken, written down, or typed in by staff.
- Customers feel reassured that their details are processed securely.
Reduced PCI DSS Scope and Compliance Burden
- MOTO transactions expand your PCI DSS scope since you’re directly handling cardholder data.
- Payment links, however, redirect the customer to a secure third-party platform.
- This reduces your compliance responsibilities, often allowing you to complete a simpler SAQ A instead of a complex SAQ D PCI questionnaire.
| Method | PCI DSS Scope | Risk Level | Authentication Support | Customer Trust |
| MOTO (Over-the-phone) | High (SAQ D or C-VT) | Higher (data handled by staff/systems) | Typically no 3DS | Lower |
| Payment Link | Low (SAQ A) | Lower (no card data exposure) | Supports 3DS | Higher |
Lower Risk of Fraud and Chargebacks
- Payment processors classify MOTO payments as non-secure, meaning they incur higher transaction fees.
- If a fraudulent MOTO payment occurs, you risk losing both the shipped product and the transaction amount due to chargebacks.
- With Payment Links, liability and risk are significantly reduced since the transaction is processed through secure channels.
Reduced Costs
- Because MOTO payments are higher risk, they carry additional processing fees.
- Since Payment Links are considered more secure, you benefit from lower processing costs per transaction.
Why does this Matter for my Business?
By using Payment Links, you:
- Demonstrate your commitment to customer security.
- Protect your business from unnecessary compliance risk.
- Reduce costs associated with MOTO transactions.
- Provide a modern, frictionless payment experience for your customers.
How do I start using Payment Links?
Our team is here to support you in adopting payment links. Whether you need help setting them up or further clarification on the process of using Payment Links, our Support Team can guide you through every step – just use the CONTACT SUPPORT button below.
