Verified by Visa (VbV) gives you extra protection and peace of mind when you are shopping online. VbV not only protects your card against unauthorised use, it also means you can be confident that the online retailer you are buying from has made your security a priority. This is how it works:
VbV Notice
VbV works by asking for additional information during the checkout process of an online purchase. You will notice VbV when a message box pops up on screen after you have entered your Visa card details.
One Time Password
This is the bank communicating with you directly. You will be prompted to input a one time password. This one time password will be sent to you via a text message to the mobile number we have registered for your account.
Transaction Complete
Once you have input and submitted this one time password you will receive a message confirming that your transaction has been completed.
Stay in touch
It is important that you inform us in the event that you receive a One Time Password notification that you were not expecting.
Please contact us on +350 200 13990 in the event that you wish to update your contact details or if you encounter any issues with the VbV service.
FAQs
Verified by Visa is a fraud prevention service that adds an extra layer of protection when you make purchases online with your Visa card. It helps ensure that the person using the card is the legitimate cardholder.
- When shopping online, participating merchants will display the Visa Secure or Verified by Visa logo during checkout. This indicates that the retailer supports the extra layer of authentication.
- You can go to Visa.com and search for “Verified by Visa.” Then scroll to the bottom of the page and look for a link like “Places to Shop” or similar. This may provide a list or examples of participating merchants
You don’t need to register or install anything. If the merchant is part of the program, Visa Secure will automatically activate during checkout. You may be prompted to verify your identity with a one-time passcode or biometric.
An OTP is a temporary code that is:
- Unique: Generated for a single use.
- Time-sensitive: Usually expires within a few minutes.
- Sent via secure channels: Typically sent to your mobile phone via SMS, email, or through an authentication app.
OTP adds an extra layer of security, especially for:
- Online banking
- E-commerce transactions
- Account logins
- Password resets
A registered mobile number is the phone number you’ve provided to your bank to receive important communications, such as security codes, transaction alerts, and account updates.
To update your registered mobile number, simply complete the Mobile Number Update Form available on our website. Once filled out, you can either email it to gibraltar@gibintbank.gi or drop it off at our branch.
Using Verified by Visa typically does not cost anything for our cardholders.
No, an OTP (One-Time Password) is not always required for every online purchase. Whether or not you’re asked for an OTP depends on several factors:
When OTP Is Required
- High-risk or unusual transactions (e.g. large amounts, new devices, or unfamiliar locations).
- Merchants enrolled in Visa Secure (Verified by Visa).
- Bank policies: Some banks require OTPs for all online purchases as an added layer of security.
When OTP May Not Be Required
- Low-risk or recurring transactions.
- Trusted merchants or previously verified devices.
- Frictionless authentication: Visa Secure uses risk-based authentication, which may allow some transactions to go through without an OTP if the system deems them safe.
It’s a security feature that helps protect your Visa card from unauthorized use when shopping online. It uses risk-based authentication to verify your identity during transactions.
How It Works
- Online Purchase Begins
- You shop at a merchant that supports Visa Secure.
Transaction Assessment
Visa’s system evaluates the transaction in real time using factors like:
- Merchant reputation
- Purchase amount
- Device and location
- Your transaction history
Authentication Triggered (if needed)
If the transaction seems unusual or high-risk, you’ll be asked to verify your identity. This involves:
- Entering a One-Time Password (OTP) sent to your registered mobile number
Transaction Approved or Declined
Once verified, the transaction proceeds. If verification fails, the transaction may be declined to protect you.
The OTP is valid for 5 to 10 minutes.
Wait a Few Minutes
Sometimes there’s a short delay in delivery, especially during peak times.
Check Your Signal & Inbox
- Ensure your phone has a good signal.
- Check your SMS inbox.
Request a New OTP
Most systems allow you to click a “Resend OTP” option after a short wait (usually 2–3 minutes).
Verify Your Registered Mobile Number
Make sure your bank has your correct and up-to-date mobile number. If needed, you can update it by completing the Mobile Number Update Form and submitting it via email or at the branch.
Restart the Transaction
Cancel and restart the transaction to trigger a new OTP.
Contact Customer Support – If the issue persists, reach out to your bank’s customer service for assistance.
Request a New OTP
Most systems will offer a “Resend OTP” or “Request New Code” option. Click it to receive a fresh code.
Restart the Transaction (if needed)
If the system doesn’t allow you to resend the OTP, you may need to cancel and restart the transaction to trigger a new one.
Double-Check the Code
- Make sure you entered the code exactly as received (no extra spaces or digits).
- Confirm that you’re using the most recent OTP if you requested more than one.
Check the Expiry Time
OTPs are usually valid for only a few minutes. If it’s expired, request a new one.
Request a New OTP
- Use the “Resend OTP” option if available.
- Wait a few seconds before trying again to avoid system delays.
Restart the Transaction
Cancel and restart the transaction to generate a fresh OTP.
Transaction Fails to Proceed
The system will not authorize the transaction until the correct OTP is entered.
Retry Option
You’ll usually be given a chance to re-enter the OTP. Most systems allow multiple attempts (usually 2–3 tries).
OTP May Expire
If you take too long or enter it incorrectly too many times, the OTP may expire. You’ll need to request a new one or restart the transaction.
Security Lockout
The bank may temporarily block further attempts if multiple incorrect entries are made, as a security measure.
If you receive an “Authentication Failed” message during a Visa Secure (Verified by Visa) transaction, it means the system couldn’t verify your identity. This is a security measure to prevent unauthorized use of your card. Here’s what you should do:
- Incorrect OTP or password: Mistyped or outdated credentials are the most frequent cause 1.
- Expired OTP: OTPs are time-sensitive and typically expire within a few minutes 1.
- Pop-up blockers: These can prevent the Visa Secure authentication window from appearing 1.
- Browser or device issues: Older browsers or unsupported devices may not handle the authentication process properly 2.
- Bank system issues: Temporary outages or glitches at the bank or merchant’s end can interrupt the process 1.
If you receive a password or OTP that you weren’t expecting, it could be a sign of a security issue or a simple mistake. Here’s what you should do:
Do Not Use It
Avoid entering the code anywhere unless you initiated a transaction or login.
Check for Unauthorized Activity
Review your recent account activity to ensure no one is trying to access your account without permission.
Contact The Bank Immediately
