Clover Mini: I see the error: “Device tampered” or “TRANSACTION FAILED: TRANSACTION FAILED: DEVICE TAMPER DETECTED PLEASE RETURN THIS UNIT”
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What error message will I see if my device has been tampered?
There are three potential screens that you may see if your Clover Mobile or Clover Mini device detects a tamper:
- In the Setup Wizard, you may be automatically directed to the Get Help screen with the error “Device tampered, return to manufacturer”
- In the Setup Wizard, in a rare case you may also see a “Tamper Detected” screen
- If the device detects a tamper after you have activated your device, it will display the following error in the Sale
, Refund 
, Voice Auth 
, Phone Sale 
, Authorization 
, etc. apps: “TRANSACTION FAILED: DEVICE TAMPER DETECTED PLEASE RETURN THIS UNIT”
What does it mean if my device has been tampered?
PCI dictates that PIN-entry devices need to detect if they have been tampered, and if so, lock the ability to take PIN-entry transactions. This can happen for a number of reasons, such as having a credit card skimmer applied to the device or someone attempting to break the device open. This can also happen if the device is dropped hard enough during shipment or by the merchant or a customer.
What should I do if my device has been tampered?
It is very important to replace a tampered device as soon as possible to restore full payment functionality.
You may still be able to take the following payments:
- Credit swipe payment
- EMV chip-insert with signature payment
You will NOT be able to take the following payments:
- Debit swipe payment
- EMV chip-insert with PIN entry payment
Note
If you are seeing a tamper message and would like to accept PIN-enabled transactions (including EBT), we will be happy to send you a replacement device. Just have an admin or manager go to Setup > Payments > PIN Entry or call Customer Support.
How do I order a new replacement device?
To order a replacement device:
- Open Setup app
- Tap Payments
- Tap Pin Entry
- Tap Prompt for Pin
- Tap Save
- Tap I need to accept PIN payments, so please send me a replacement Clover <device> that will accept PIN payments.
- Tap OK
Clover will send you an email when the new replacement device ships. This email will also have the replacement device activation code. Activate your device and return the tampered device back in the same box that your new device was shipped in. A return shipping label will be included in the box.