What is Verified by Visa? A security system used by Visa that places an additional layer of verification between making an on-line purchase and completing the transaction. This system is in addition to the 3-digit security code on the back of your card.
How does Verified by Visa work? When you attempt to make a purchase on a site participating in Visa’s “voluntary program” you are directed to a new window to enter your secret Verified by Visa password. Upon successfully entering the password your transaction is processed. If you fail to enter the password, the system enters a fraud alert and your credit card account is put on hold. You then must get the account released to make any other transaction, with any other merchant, anywhere else.
How do I enroll in Verified by Visa? You can enroll at the Visa website or during your attempted purchase at a participating member site.
How do I opt out of Verified by Visa? You don’t. Visa uses the program in the United States, Australia, New Zealand, India, Singapore and South Korea.
What if I decline to participate? John Leyden reports in The Register article, Net shoppers bullied into being Verified by Visa, that a Visa account was locked each time a customer refused to use the system. He says Visa requires participating member stores to use the system and if customers do not complete the process, the account is frozen. This particular account holder complained to Visa without success and warns you might not know you will be required to use Verified by Visa until you attempt a purchase, and then it is too late because the system registers your failure to cooperate as fraud and locks down the account. Visa says member sites display a Verified by Visa logo.
Do I have any legal rights against Visa? Visa uses its card member agreement to make unilateral changes to the account and if you continue to use your account you have to use it on Visa’s terms.
