Just as GDPR was introduced to protect your data, Strong Customer Authentication is being implemented to reduce fraud and make online and contactless offline payments more secure.
This directive was rolled out in the EU in 2021 and will be required at the start of 2022 in the UK.
How Strong Customer Authentication (SCA) impacts you
You’ll need to verify all payments with at least two of the three verification methods:
Something you know (ex. Bank login, a pin code)
Something you have (a credit card, an RSA token)
Something you are (fingerprint or facial features)
You already are using SFA when you pay with a debit card (something you have) at the shop and type in your pin (something you know). Or when you use Google Pay or Apple Pay and scan your fingerprint when buying lunch (something you have and something you are).
When it comes to online purchases it can feel a little less natural than inserting your chip and entering your pin. Don’t worry - it’s actually very straightforward.
Now, when you’re purchasing something online your bank might ask you for additional verification such as a confirmation code sent via SMS message, or for you to log in and confirm in your bank’s app (both something you have). This is dependant on the transaction size, the place, and the bank.
Where you’ll notice Strong Customer Authentication (SCA) when you’re using Roomex
If you book on account, lucky for you, NO CHANGES!
If you book using a credit or lodge card you may be asked for an additional piece of information via SMS text or in your bank’s app.
To ensure your booking experience with Roomex remains smooth, we strongly recommend that you take one of the following actions to bypass Strong Customer Authentication (SCA)
WHY? If you make frequent bookings or have a large team of bookers or travellers using Roomex, paying with a Credit Card or a non-business issued Lodge Card you will be required to complete these extra Strong Customer Authentication steps very often.
We’ve seen teams run into problems when one person within the company has the Card linked to their mobile phone. When another member of the company goes to book, that main Cardholder has to confirm the transaction and or send on an SMS code. This creates delays and confusion when booking.
Recommended actions to bypass Strong Customer Authentication (SCA)
Contact your bank and ask them to make Roomex a ‘Trusted Merchant.’ You’ll never have to provide any further security information when booking.
Secure a Lodge Card from your bank that is issued to your company rather than to an individual in your company. SFA is not required for this type of card.
Issue RoomexPay expense cards to your bookers or travellers, and use them to pay for accommodation. These cards are low risk, reloadable debit cards that are topped up by your company. Then, whenever the booker is asked for an SCA verification method (SMS or login to RoomexPay App) it’s attached directly to their mobile device.
If you’d like more information on any of our SCA Bypass Solutions reach out to your Account Manager.