Verified by Visa is an authentication program designed to enhance the security of online credit and debit card transactions. It is offered by Visa, one of the major payment card networks, and aims to protect cardholders and merchants from unauthorized use and fraud.
Here are the key aspects of Verified by Visa:
1. Authentication Process: When a cardholder initiates an online transaction at a merchant that participates in the Verified by Visa program, an additional layer of authentication is added. The cardholder is redirected to their card issuer's website, where they are prompted to provide additional information to verify their identity. This information may include a one-time password (OTP) sent to the cardholder's registered mobile phone, a personal message, or other authentication methods.
2. Two-Factor Authentication: Verified by Visa typically employs a two-factor authentication mechanism. The first factor is something the cardholder knows, such as a password or PIN associated with the card. The second factor is something the cardholder possesses, like an OTP or a registered mobile device. The combination of these factors adds an extra layer of security, reducing the risk of unauthorized use of the card for online transactions.
3. Card Issuer Involvement: The authentication process of Verified by Visa involves the cardholder's issuing bank or card issuer. The card issuer verifies the cardholder's identity based on the authentication information provided during the process. The issuer then approves or declines the transaction based on the authentication results. This involvement of the issuer helps ensure that the transaction is authorized by the legitimate cardholder.
4. Enhanced Security: Verified by Visa provides enhanced security for online transactions, reducing the risk of fraud and unauthorized card usage. By adding an extra layer of authentication, it becomes more challenging for fraudsters to make unauthorized transactions using stolen card details. The authentication process helps protect both cardholders and merchants from potential losses and fraudulent activities.
5. Liability Shift: When a transaction is authenticated through Verified by Visa, liability for certain types of fraudulent activity may shift from the merchant to the card issuer or payment network. If a fraudulent transaction occurs despite successful authentication, the issuer or network may bear the liability instead of the merchant, providing added protection for merchants.
It's important to note that Verified by Visa is an optional feature for both merchants and cardholders. Merchants need to integrate the Verified by Visa functionality into their online payment processing systems to support this additional authentication layer. Cardholders may need to register their cards for the Verified by Visa service with their issuing banks to participate in the program.
Verified by Visa aims to provide a secure online shopping experience, instilling confidence in cardholders and merchants while reducing the risk of unauthorized transactions. By leveraging additional authentication measures, it helps protect cardholders from fraud and enhances the security of online payments.