Which function does a front-end processor NOT typically handle?

The front-end processor primarily functions to facilitate the communication between merchants, card networks, and financial institutions during payment transactions. This includes overseeing merchant terminal support to ensure devices are working correctly, authorizing card payments by verifying cardholder information and available funds, and capturing transaction data for submission to the appropriate bank or card issuer.

Assuming liability for fraud losses is generally not a function of the front-end processor. This responsibility typically rests with the merchant or the acquiring bank depending on the agreements in place or specific regulations, such as the Payment Card Industry Data Security Standards (PCI DSS). Liability for fraud often involves broader considerations and protections at the bank level rather than being a direct operational task of the front-end processor, which focuses on processing transactions rather than taking ownership of financial risk associated with fraud.