Strong Customer Authentication (SCA) is a way for us to confirm that it's you making a payment or using your account. SCA was introduced by a new law called PSD2. This changed how customers confirmed their identity when making purchases online and using online or mobile banking.
Simply, it's an extra layer of security which helps us make sure that when your credit or debit card is used, it's been used by you and not a fraudster.
Making purchases online:
You’ll sometimes be asked for a One Time Passcode (OTP). We’ll send this code via a text message which you need to enter at the online checkout to enable you to complete your purchase.
We’ll send your OTP to the mobile phone number we hold for you. If the mobile number isn’t up to date, you won’t receive the code and you won’t be able to complete your online purchase. The same applies to any additional cardholders you have, so we need to have their mobile numbers too.
You may not receive a request for an OTP on every purchase, so don’t be worried if you’re not asked every time. When you're asked to provide a code, simply follow the onscreen instructions.
As well as entering an OTP, you may also be asked to enter your home postcode to confirm your online purchase. This is so we can use behavioural biometric recognition technology to verify your identity.
We'll never call, email or ask you for your OTP, so please don't share it with anyone. For more information on protecting yourself from fraud, go to virginmoney.com/fraud.