What distinguishes SAQ-C-VT from other merchant categorizations?

The distinction of SAQ-C-VT lies primarily in its applicability to merchants using only web-based virtual payment terminals. This Self-Assessment Questionnaire (SAQ) category is specifically tailored for those who conduct transactions through virtual terminals, which are accessed via the internet.

Merchants that fall under this category typically engage in e-commerce activities where there is no continuous internet connectivity but utilize secure online platforms to process payments. This focus on web-based operations sets SAQ-C-VT apart from other merchant categorizations that may involve more complex systems or direct handling of card data through point-of-sale devices.

In contrast, the other options describe scenarios that do not align with the unique focus of SAQ-C-VT. For example, merchants with no internet connection or those that apply to purely physical retail spaces are better suited to different SAQ categories. Similarly, the requirement for advanced encryption is not a defining feature of SAQ-C-VT, as all merchants are encouraged to employ security measures but the category itself does not mandate specific encryption technologies. Therefore, the alignment of SAQ-C-VT with web-based payment terminals is what distinctly characterizes it.