Security and Fraud Policy

Our Security and Fraud Policy, outlines the robust measures we employ to protect against fraud, ensure secure payments (including our preferred Bitcoin option), and maintain the integrity of your purchases. This policy reflects our commitment to trust, transparency, and compliance with global standards, including PCI-DSS and anti-money laundering (AML) regulations.

Our Commitment to Security

Your security is paramount as you invest in our ethically sourced, high-value gems. We implement industry-leading practices to protect every aspect of your interaction with us, from website access to shipment delivery.

  • Data Protection:
    • All data transmission uses SSL/TLS encryption (256-bit), securing personal details (e.g., names, addresses) and payment information (e.g., Bitcoin wallet addresses, credit card tokens).
    • Sensitive data is stored in encrypted, U.S.-based servers with access restricted to authorized personnel via multi-factor authentication (MFA).
  • Payment Security:
    • Bitcoin transactions are verified on the blockchain with two confirmations (10–30 minutes), leveraging its immutable ledger to prevent tampering.
    • Credit card and PayPal payments are processed via PCI-DSS-compliant third parties (Stripe, PayPal), with no full card data retained by us—only tokenized references.
    • Bank transfers require secure SWIFT codes and are monitored for anomalies.
  • Physical Security:
    • Our Diamond District vault (580 5th Avenue, Suite 47) features biometric locks, 24/7 surveillance, and armed courier options for high-value shipments (e.g., $25,000+ Kashmir sapphires).
    • Shipments are insured and tracked, with signature confirmation for orders over $10,000.
  • Regular Audits:
    • We conduct quarterly security audits by third-party experts to identify vulnerabilities, ensuring compliance with GDPR, CCPA, and AML laws.
    • Employee training on fraud detection occurs biannually, led by our family-managed security team.

Fraud Prevention Measures

Fraud threatens the integrity of your gem purchases, and we proactively combat it with advanced tools and processes:

  • Real-Time Monitoring:
    • AI-driven systems analyze transaction patterns (e.g., unusual Bitcoin wallet activity, multiple card attempts) to flag potential fraud. For example, a $15,000 order from a new IP triggers a manual review.
    • Velocity checks limit high-frequency purchases (e.g., >5 transactions/hour) to prevent bulk fraud.
  • Identity Verification:
    • For orders over $10,000 or Bitcoin payments exceeding $5,000, we require KYC verification (e.g., government-issued ID, proof of address) to comply with AML regulations and protect against money laundering.
    • Email and phone validation (e.g., via Twilio) confirm account ownership.
  • Fraud Detection Indicators:
    • Suspicious signs include mismatched billing/shipping addresses, rapid order cancellations, or use of VPNs. These trigger a 24-hour hold and contact from our fraud team at fraud@rickstonebase.com.
    • Bitcoin transactions are cross-checked against known scam wallets via blockchain analytics (e.g., Chainalysis).
  • Customer Authentication:
    • Two-factor authentication (2FA) is required for account logins and high-value order changes, using SMS or authenticator apps.
    • Verbal confirmation via (212) GEM-STONE (436-7866) may be requested for disputed transactions.

Response to Fraudulent Activity

If fraud is suspected or confirmed, we act swiftly to protect you and our business:

  • Investigation Process:
    1. Upon detection, we freeze the transaction and notify you within 24 hours via email or phone.
    2. Our team collaborates with payment processors (e.g., Stripe, blockchain nodes) and law enforcement if needed, providing transaction logs and gem certificates.
    3. Resolution typically takes 7–14 business days, depending on complexity.
  • Customer Protection:
    • If you’re a victim (e.g., account hacked), we reverse unauthorized charges where possible (subject to processor policies) and offer a replacement gem or store credit.
    • Bitcoin refunds are issued to your original wallet; dollar refunds follow our Return Policy timeline (5–7 days).
  • Fraud Perpetrator Action:
    • Identified fraudsters face account bans, legal action, and reporting to authorities (e.g., FBI IC3). Recovered funds are returned to affected clients pro-rata.
    • We maintain a blacklist of wallet addresses and IP ranges, shared with industry partners like the Jewelers’ Security Alliance.

Reporting Suspected Fraud

  • How to Report: Contact us immediately at fraud@rickstonebase.com or (212) GEM-STONE (436-7866) with details (e.g., order number, suspicious email).
  • What to Provide: Screenshots, transaction IDs, or unusual communication examples help us act faster.
  • Timeline: We acknowledge reports within 12 hours and update you weekly until resolved.

Policy Compliance and Transparency

  • Legal Adherence: We comply with U.S. AML laws (e.g., Bank Secrecy Act), EU GDPR, and international trade regulations, filing Suspicious Activity Reports (SARs) when required.
  • Client Notification: Significant security breaches (e.g., data exposure) are reported within 72 hours per CCPA/GDPR, with remediation steps outlined.
  • Policy Updates: Changes are posted here with a revised date; existing transactions follow the policy at the time of purchase.

Why Trust Our Security?

With 45 years of family stewardship and a 99.8% delivery success rate in 2024, Rick Stone Base combines traditional vigilance with modern technology. Our security measures protect over 500,000 global clients, ensuring your $3,000 aquamarine or $20,000 emerald parcel arrives safely. Bitcoin’s decentralized nature complements our efforts, reducing fraud risks inherent in traditional systems.

How We Support You

At Rick Stone Base, your security is as precious as our gems. With robust protections and a responsive team, we ensure your transactions shine with integrity. Let us know how we can assist—your next purchase is safe with us.

How We Support You

At Rick Stone Base, your security is as precious as our gems. With robust protections and a responsive team, we ensure your transactions shine with integrity. Let us know how we can assist—your next purchase is safe with us.