Frequently asked questions
Moneris is the company we use for payment processing and 3-D Secure is a new credit card security measure we introduced on bcferries.com and the BC Ferries mobile app. It is a credit card authentication process for online transactions that enables real-time cardholder authentication between merchants and issuers of credit cards through the validation of transactional information by the credit card issuer. This provides an additional layer of security before authorization.
For most customers there will be no change, however, in some cases, additional verification will be requested when payment is being processed.
How do I provide additional authentication if required?
If additional authentication is required after entering your payment details, you will be redirected to your card provider's secure authentication page with instructions on how to complete the process. In most cases, you will receive a one-time secure code via text, email or voice call, and will be asked to enter that secure code to authenticate your transaction.
This process is handled by your card provider, not BC Ferries, and the instructions may vary slightly depending on which institution you bank with.
What if the additional authentication process doesn't work?
If you experience any issues during the authentication process, including failure to receive the one-time email or text code, contact your credit card provider (Visa, MasterCard or American Express) by calling the customer service phone number located on the back of your credit card.
In most cases, the contact information your credit card provider has on file is out of date, incomplete or incorrect. The focus of the call should not be on the transaction, but on the fact that a verification code was not received. Once your contact information has been updated and the changes have taken effect, you will begin receiving verification codes. Please confirm with the card provider how long this process will take before attempting the transaction again.
Canadian card providers vary in how often they require additional authentication on a transaction. BC Ferries does not have any control over how frequently this occurs, or the type of authentication required (one-time text code, voice call code, email code, security question, etc.). Any concerns with this part of the purchase process should be directed to your card provider.
Why was 3-D Secure introduced?
As a means to detect and reduce fraud, 3-D Secure provides customers an extra layer of security for online card transactions.
When was 3-D Secure implemented?
3-D Secure, version 2.0, was implemented on Saturday, October 28 on bcferries.com and the BC Ferries mobile app.
Is 3-D Secure commonly used by other merchants?
Yes, 3-D Secure is commonly used by Visa, Mastercard and American Express issuers globally to secure customer card transactions.
Will I be asked to provide secondary authentication for purchases made at terminals or on board the ferry?
No, 3-D Secure only impacts transactions made on bcferries.com or using the BC Ferries mobile app. This service does not impact purchases made with Experience Card either.