Purchasing from merchants with 3D Secure (3DS)

Many merchants globally and an increasing number in North America are using 3D Secure for online purchases. 3D Secure is an extra security measure designed to protect you when making online payments. It works by sending a one-time passcode to your mobile phone, which you’ll enter during the checkout process. This added step helps prevent unauthorized transactions and reduces the risk of fraud, giving you greater peace of mind when making purchases.

How do I complete a 3D Secure transaction?

If the merchant you are purchasing from requests a 3D Secure challenge during online checkout, you will be redirected from the merchant checkout to a 3D Secure prompt.

Example 3D Secure prompt during checkout process.

In the 3D Secure prompt, you will enter a code that was sent to your device. The code is sent via one of two methods:

• SMS text message if you have a phone number on file with Float
• Email if you have not provided your phone number. 
  • 3DS passcodes for USD card purchases can only be sent via SMS. 

Example email containing 3D Secure code.

Once you complete the challenge, you will return to the merchant checkout and continue the purchase.

Why was a code sent to a phone number ending in 1111? 

3DS codes for USD cards cannot be sent via email if the phone number is not present. If you see a 3DS prompt indicating that a a code was sent to a number ending in 1111, this means you have not entered your phone number on your Float user profile and a default value is being used instead. To resolve this, add a phone number to your Float user profile and then re-attempt the transaction. 

How come I wasn't prompted for 3D Secure?

You are prompted only at merchants who have 3D Secure enabled.

Most North American merchants do not yet utilize this technology, so it is likely that many transactions will not have a 3D Secure challenge.

What if I don't have access to my phone?

If you have a phone number in your Float user profile, the 3D Secure challenge is sent by SMS. 

If you hold a CAD card and regularly do not have access to your phone or are travelling without cellular service, you can request to remove your phone number from your Float account and all future 3DS codes will be sent via email.

Our banking partner does not offer the ability to send the one-time code via email for USD cards, so a phone number capable of receiving SMS must be present on your Float user profile.