GBG vs. Sertifi by Flywire (Authorizations):
Which Is Right for You?

The Decision

Choosing between GBG by GBG and Sertifi by Flywire hinges on what your hotel needs most. GBG specializes in identity verification and fraud detection across various sectors, while Sertifi focuses on secure, PCI-compliant payment authorizations tailored for hospitality. Both aim to reduce fraud, but their core functionalities serve different operational priorities. Which one aligns better with your hotel’s primary security or payment collection challenges?

Your team must weigh whether your focus is on comprehensive identity validation or streamlining payment authorization processes. GBG’s broad data network supports global identity verification, whereas Sertifi excels in secure, quick payment approvals and contract management. Does your hotel need in-depth customer verification or faster payment processing?

Is GBG or Sertifi Better for Hotels?

GBG by GBG offers an extensive suite of identity verification tools, making it suitable for hotels that need to verify guest identities or comply with KYC and AML regulations. Conversely, Sertifi by Flywire provides a straightforward, PCI-compliant payment authorization system, ideal for hotels prioritizing secure, quick payment collection and contract signing.

If your hotel operates in high-regulation environments like finance or healthcare, GBG’s verification capabilities may be more relevant. If your goal is to speed up check-ins, reduce chargebacks, or streamline payment workflows, Sertifi’s payment-focused system will serve you better.

GBG’s global presence and broad data partnerships support complex risk management, but Sertifi’s recent reviews highlight its ease of use, security, and rapid payment processing. Which operational pain point is your hotel aiming to resolve?

Is GBG or Sertifi Easier to Use?

Sertifi by Flywire scores a 4.74 out of 5 for ease of use, with users describing the platform as intuitive and straightforward. Many reviewers praise its simple interface for sending, signing, and managing contracts, emphasizing quick onboarding and adoption by staff.

GBG, on the other hand, scores a 0, reflecting limited or no data on user friendliness, likely due to its enterprise-focused, data-heavy solutions that are not designed for quick or easy daily use by hotel staff. Customer testimonials for Sertifi frequently mention its user-friendly portal and seamless client experience.

Edge: Sertifi.

Which Has Better Features: GBG or Sertifi?

Sertifi offers six unique features—network security, threat lifecycle management, penetration testing, compliance readiness, PCI compliance audit, and SIEM—that directly support payment security. GBG, however, provides no proprietary features but offers extensive identity verification solutions built on data from over 200 global partners.

If your hotel needs advanced security features to prevent fraud and ensure PCI compliance, Sertifi’s feature set is more comprehensive. Conversely, if identity verification, location intelligence, and KYC compliance are your priorities, GBG’s solutions have broader capabilities, although they are less tailored to daily hotel operations.

Edge: Sertifi.

Which Has Better Customer Support: GBG or Sertifi?

Sertifi’s recent reviews show a 4.7 out of 5 support rating, with clients praising their professionalism and prompt assistance. Hotel users describe Sertifi’s support as responsive and helpful, especially during onboarding, with consistent positive feedback about its support team.

GBG’s support ratings are not explicitly available, but the absence of recent reviews suggests less recent engagement or feedback. Given the high support ratings for Sertifi and its active customer base, it clearly provides more reliable and timely support.

Edge: Sertifi.

Which Has More Integrations: GBG or Sertifi?

Sertifi integrates with seven verified partners, including Oracle Hospitality, Infor, Amadeus, Stripe, and HotelKey, making it well-suited for streamlined workflows within hospitality-specific platforms. GBG, with no verified integrations, lacks direct connectivity to hotel management or booking systems.

If your hotel relies on multiple integrated systems, Sertifi’s broader ecosystem makes it easier to embed into existing workflows. GBG’s lack of integrations limits its applicability for daily hotel operations.

Edge: Sertifi.

Which Do Hoteliers Rate Higher: GBG or Sertifi?

Sertifi boasts a 4.87/5 average rating from 110 reviews, primarily from hospitality businesses. Guesthouses, branded hotels, and extended-stay properties rate Sertifi highly, emphasizing its security, ease of use, and efficiency.

GBG has no recent or specific hotel-related reviews, making it difficult to gauge user satisfaction within the hotel industry. The latest data indicates Sertifi is the preferred choice, especially among hotels seeking straightforward, reliable solutions.

Edge: Sertifi.

How Much Do GBG and Sertifi Cost?

GBG does not publish specific pricing details, suggesting custom quotes based on your organization’s needs. Sertifi offers a transparent starting price of $100 per month, with no additional implementation or setup fees.

For hotels seeking predictable costs and straightforward budgeting, Sertifi’s clear pricing model is advantageous. GBG’s bespoke pricing might suit larger organizations with complex verification needs but less so for budget-conscious hotels.

What Type of Hotel Should Use GBG?

• Hotels that need rigorous identity verification to comply with legal regulations.
• Hotels operating in high-risk environments where fraud detection is critical.
• Chains that require verification of customer identities across multiple regions.
• Hotels that need to verify employee backgrounds or perform AML checks.
• Hotels with large international guest volumes needing location intelligence.

Not ideal if your hotel seeks quick, day-to-day operational solutions or does not require complex identity verification.

What Type of Hotel Should Use Sertifi?

• Hotels that prioritize fast, secure payment processing and contract management.
• Properties aiming to reduce chargebacks and improve cash flow.
• Hotels with high-volume reservations needing automated authorizations.
• Branded hotels that want easy integration with existing property management systems.
• Hotels seeking to improve guest trust through transparent, PCI-compliant payment workflows.

Not ideal if your hotel’s primary concern is identity verification or fraud detection beyond payment security.

Sertifi vs GBG: The Bottom Line for Hotels

Sertifi by Flywire is the stronger choice for hotels seeking a trusted, easy-to-use platform that enhances operational efficiency. Its recent reviews, high ratings, and broad integration options underscore its suitability for modern hospitality operations.

GBG offers robust identity verification and fraud detection solutions but is less tailored to the hotel industry’s daily needs. Its enterprise focus better serves high-risk sectors or global brands requiring comprehensive customer verification.

If your hotel needs faster payments, simpler workflows, and reliable support, Sertifi is the clear winner. Choose GBG if your goal is detailed identity verification and risk management across multiple regions and regulatory environments.

In conclusion, for most hotels looking to streamline payment authorizations and reduce fraud, Sertifi provides a proven, user-friendly, and well-supported solution. If identity verification and fraud detection at a broader organizational level are your priorities, GBG’s capabilities are more aligned, though less directly applicable to daily hotel operations.