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Shopping online has never been easier, with personal shoppers, grocery delivery services and same-day shipping options. But with each credit card transaction, you’re opening yourself up to the world of credit card hackers. Here’s how Verified by Visa helps keep you protected when you shop online with your credit card.
What is Verified by Visa?
Verified by Visa (VBV) is a free program offered by Visa that gives you an added level of protection when shopping online. It’s designed to make online purchases with your Visa credit card even more secure.
Non VBV credit cards only have first-level protection — requiring just your card number, expiration date and CVV number on the back of your card. Unfortunately, hackers can often find ways around this level of protection to gain access to your card information.
When you shop online, you want quick and easy transactions — and you expect safety. Thousands of online merchants have enrolled in Verified by Visa, adding an extra layer of protection to make shopping online safer. What this means for you is more confidence in your purchases knowing your identity is protected.
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How does VBV work?
Verified by Visa works by asking you to provide additional information — either from you directly (by entering your VBV password and your email address) or by looking at your past purchasing behaviour to ensure it’s you making the purchase. This security check gives your card an added level of protection each time you use it.
Making a purchase. Aside from entering your credit card details, you’ll typically be redirected to a page that allows you to enter your Verified by Visa credentials, or, a message box will pop up. This is your bank communicating with you directly.
Verify. You’ll need to enter your email address and your VBV password. Entering a password each time you use your card online adds another layer of security, helping to prove your identity and ultimately protect you. If you don’t see the Verified by Visa message, and instead see a revolving wheel, not to worry, it means that your bank is verifying your purchase with a background check. The first time you make use of Verified by Visa, you will need to create an account. You verify your identity with a password or a code that is sent to your cell phone, depending on your bank.
Why should I enroll in VBV?
It’s free. It’s free to sign up for and to use — every time.
Security. Be confident each time you make a purchase online with the extra layer of protection.
Easy to use. There’s no apps or software to upload and can be used on your phone or computer.
How do I enroll?
In order to use Verified by Visa, both your Visa credit card and the merchant you’re buying from need to be registered. Check with your Visa card provider to see if it participates in the Verified by Visa program.
It’s quick and easy to activate any of your Visa credit cards online and there’s no need for you to get a new Visa card. You’ll need to create a Verified by Visa account the first time you use it. From then on, you’ll be able to use it with your login details.
Creating your account. Depending on your bank, you may be able to create an account online by using your banking details, email and creating a password, or you’ll get a personal password sent to your cell phone which you can use to create your account. Once you’ve registered and created your VBV password, you’re instantly protected.
Authorized users. If you have more than one cardholder on your credit cards, each one needs to be registered to create individual VBV accounts.
It’s easy to think your credit card is protected each time you shop online, but hackers are looking for unsecured sites and unsuspecting users all the time. Keep these tips in mind when you use your credit card to shop online:
Trust your merchants. Shop on sites you know and trust — or research them first.
Delivery and return policies. Know your rights when it comes to delivery and return policies.
Customer service. Make sure the site has customer service contact information.
Security. To be sure you’re on a secure website, look for the lock or key signs at the bottom of your browser window.
Address. The website address should appear https:// rather than http:// — the “s” denotes a secure website.
Confirmation email. Hang on to your confirmation email after you make a purchase — it’s your receipt and proof if something goes wrong.
Bottom line
Online shopping isn’t going anywhere — we’ve grown to appreciate our groceries delivered to our door and Amazon Prime packages delivered hours after we order them. To protect yourself from potential hackers, check with your bank to see if they participate in the Verified by Visa program.
Frequently asked questions
Visa will never ask you to update your info via email. Hackers have lots of ways to get ahold of your credit card information, and sending you an email is one of them. You will never get an email from Verified by Visa — it is not a person or a company.
The biggest benefit merchants see with VBV is increased consumer confidence leading to more purchases. It also helps fight fraudulent charges — helping your bottom line. Fighting credit card fraud helps everyone.
Jeremy is finder's Global Head of Publishing & Editorial. Jeremy has been with finder since the very beginning and is part of the founding team working closely with Fred and Frank to build finder.com into the comparison network it is today.
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