3DS and SCA verification for online payments

What are 3DS and SCA?

3DS, short for 3D Secure, is the extra check some websites ask for when you pay by card. SCA, short for Strong Customer Authentication, is the European rule that requires that check. In practice they mean the same thing to you: confirming that it really is you making the payment.

Whether you are asked to verify a payment depends partly on the amount you are spending. It is a security measure, not a sign that anything is wrong.

How do I complete the check?

When you are prompted, you have two options.

Option 1: verify in the CleverCards App

Open the CleverCards App on your phone and approve the payment there. Once approved, go back to the retailer's screen to finish your purchase.

Option 2: verify by SMS

If you cannot get to the App, select Send me a verification code. You will receive a 6-digit code by SMS. Enter that code together with your 4-digit PIN. If you have forgotten your PIN, see [Link: Your PIN: what it is, resetting and updating].

Once the retailer confirms the payment, you will see confirmation on screen and the transaction will appear in your CleverCards transaction history.

Why was my 3DS or SCA check declined?

The most common reasons are:

• The code or PIN entered was incorrect
• The one-time code had already expired, as these are only valid for a short time
• There were not enough funds on the card to cover the purchase
• The card details entered were incorrect, such as the card number, expiry date or CVV