When a consumer’s funds are debited for a purchase yet the anticipated electronic receipt is not delivered, it represents a failure in transaction communication. This can occur in online retail, subscription services, or any platform where automated notifications confirm successful financial exchanges. For example, a user might purchase software, see the charge appear on their bank statement, but never receive the anticipated email detailing the transaction.
The absence of expected transaction details creates uncertainty and potential distrust. It can necessitate additional customer service contact to verify the purchase, adding operational overhead. Historically, these notification gaps have been attributed to system glitches, delivery issues, or incorrect customer contact information. Addressing this is crucial for maintaining consumer confidence and regulatory compliance.