3d Secure is a new technical standard developed by Visa and MasterCard to further secure CNP (Cardholder Not Present) transactions over the Internet. MasterCard brand their system as 'MasterCard SecureCode' and Visa call theirs 'Verified by Visa'. It requires the cardholder to provide a personal password or pin number when paying for goods online with their credit or debit card just as they would provide a pin on the high street. This ensures that the shopper is who they say they are when providing card details to an online shop. Cardholders are reassured that when they sign up their card is protected from fraudulent use on the internet.
Why am I being prompted for a code?
This is because UK Office Direct Limited has incorporated the Verified by Visa and Mastercard SecureCode technology into our website payment system. The page presented is actually from your Visa & MasterCard issuing bank, NOT UK Office Direct Limited. This extra layer of security is now mandatory if your card issuer supports it. If your card is not part of the scheme you will not be asked for the code and your order will complete as normal.
What is Verified by Visa & Mastercard Securecode?
Verified by Visa & Mastercard Securecode (3d Secure) is a service that enhances your existing Visa & Mastercard. A private code gives added protection against unauthorised use of your card when you shop at participating online merchants.
How does 3d Secure work?
Once you've registered and created your own private security code, you will be automatically prompted by your card issuer to type in your security code each time you make a purchase at participating online stores/retailers. Then your security code will be quickly confirmed by your card issuer to complete your order.
How will this affect your checkout process?
In a 3d Secure transaction, you must register for Verified by Visa (VbV) or MasterCard SecureCode (MSC) with your issuing bank if you have not already done so. When you place an order, you will be asked to register your card before continuing with the transaction.
The transaction process is as follows:
1. You will complete your order by adding products to your shopping basket as usual.
2. At the checkout stage, if you select to pay by Visa, Visa Delta and Visa Debit, Maestro or MasterCard, then you will be asked to enter your security code/password by your issuing bank.
3. The bank will verify the password and the transaction will continue as normal.
How does 3d Secure protect me?
Correctly entering your security code during a purchase at a participating online store/retailer, confirms that you are the authorised cardholder. If an incorrect security code is entered, the purchase will not be completed. Even if someone knows your credit or debit card number, the purchase cannot be completed without your security code at a participating store/retailer.
