South African gamers frustrated by Steam payment glitch
A growing number of Absa cardholders are unable to complete transactions on a popular gaming platform, raising concerns about digital access and payment restrictions.
South Africa.- South African gamers have been left frustrated after being unable to make purchases on Steam, the world’s leading PC gaming distribution platform. In the last few weeks, there have been cases of Absa bank clients experiencing declined transactions when attempting to buy games or content using their bank cards on Steam.
Millions of players, including many in South Africa, use Steam to buy, download and enjoy a wide range of games. It also offers updates, social elements and online multiplayer features.
The issue has sparked confusion and concern among users, many of whom claim that they had been using the same cards for years without any prior problems.
“It has always been a hassle-free experience: add games to cart, checkout, select Visa card and then approve purchase with my banking app. But today, all of a sudden, I can’t do that,” said a user on the Steam Forum.
According to discussions on the Forum, users reported seeing a yellow banner notification stating, “Your purchase has not been completed. Your credit card information has been declined by your credit card company”.
Fraud checks blamed; gamers seek workarounds
In some cases, Absa customers received automated SMS messages stating that the transaction violated South African Exchange Control regulations. However, Absa confirmed this notice was incorrect. The bank clarified that the declined transactions were not related to Exchange Control rules, but rather triggered by its internal fraud detection system.
“Absa does not block transactions to Steam on the basis of Exchange Control Regulations. However, we decline transactions that are considered suspicious in terms of our fraud rules,” the bank said in a statement.
Steam’s own support team responded to individual complaints by encouraging users to try again or use an alternative payment method. “Rest assured, you’re free to use this payment method or any other available for your region listed during the checkout process.”
Some users have found ways around the payment issue, opting for Steam Wallet codes or gift cards, which seem to be working without any problems. Many customers have turned to online forums to report similar experiences and seek solutions.
With payment glitches blocking purchases, South African gamers are turning to workarounds while hoping for a quick solution.
