What Is MCC 5815
MCC 5815 is the Merchant Category Code assigned by Visa and Mastercard to merchants selling digital goods: apps, games, subscriptions, in-app purchases, and other digital content.
The world's largest digital platforms use this code:
- Apple App Store and iTunes
- Google Play Store
- Microsoft Store
- Steam
- PlayStation Store
- Netflix, Spotify, and other streaming services (in some configurations)
If your bank has blocked MCC 5815, you won't be able to complete any of these purchases with that card — even with sufficient balance.
Why Banks Block MCC 5815
High fraud rates. Digital goods are a prime target for fraudsters. A purchased code or account can be resold or used instantly, and the goods themselves can't be "returned." This drives high chargeback volumes in this category.
Card product restrictions. Social benefit cards, senior payroll cards, and children's cards often have a limited list of permitted MCCs. Digital goods are typically excluded.
Regional issuer restrictions. Banks in Russia and CIS countries frequently restrict transactions at App Store (US), Google Play (US), and other foreign digital storefronts — particularly post-2022.
Unauthorized spending prevention. Some banks block MCC 5815 as a safeguard against accidental in-app purchases by children or unauthorized card use.
How to Fix It
Option 1: Unblock MCC in your bank settings. Call your bank's support and ask them to enable transactions under MCC 5815. Name the specific merchant you want to pay. Some banks offer this through their app under card settings.
Option 2: Use a different card. If your bank doesn't permit MCC 5815 at all, or only for domestic merchants, you'll need a card from a different issuer.
Option 3: Use a virtual card. Marix virtual cards support MCC 5815 and work with App Store, Google Play, Steam, and other digital content platforms without additional restrictions.
Option 4: Use gift cards. App Store and Google Play gift cards can be purchased with cash or crypto and used to top up your account balance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does my card work in physical stores but not on App Store? Physical stores use different MCCs (e.g., MCC 5411 for supermarkets). Your bank may have permitted some categories while blocking others. App Store uses MCC 5815.
Does MCC 5815 work the same across all regional App Stores? No. The US App Store and a regional App Store may be processed differently. A foreign App Store may require a card issued by a foreign bank.
Can a merchant use a different MCC instead of 5815? Sometimes. For example, Netflix in different countries may use MCC 5815 or MCC 5968 depending on their acquirer configuration.
If you can't pay for digital goods with your current card, try Marix — virtual cards that work with App Store, Steam, and other platforms.