Shopper help > Privacy and security

Additional security checks when shopping with Amazon Pay

Online payments using Amazon Pay are becoming even more secure because of added security checks. With added security, customers using credit or debit cards may be asked to verify their transaction.

How does verification work?

When you place an order or pay for a subscription using Amazon Pay and verification is required, you are directed to a webpage owned by your bank or card issuer to verify the payment for your transaction before the purchase is completed.

What kinds of challenges can I expect?

The types of payment verification differ depending on your bank. You might be asked to enter a unique security code or to use your bank’s mobile phone app or code-generating device to complete verification. To find out how the process for your card looks or how to register your card to complete verification challenges, contact your bank or card issuer.

When you see such a verification page, carefully read the page’s instructions and follow them to complete payment.

In some cases, you might be asked to sign in to your Amazon account to respond to the challenge there.

What should I do if the verification process fails?

If verification of your payment fails, try again. You might have entered an incorrect security code. If you see an error message again or can't complete verification, contact your bank or the card issuer that is indicated on the back of your card. You can also try to use a different payment method from your Amazon Wallet.

How can I make the verification process smoother?

To complete verification, make sure that you:

  • Are the account holder. The bank needs to verify the identity of the actual account holder.
  • Carefully read the instructions on the authentication page, and follow them closely.
  • Enter all requested information correctly as prompted. A common mistake is to enter the phone number from which you received the security code.
  • Update your personal information with your bank or card issuer, including your email address and phone number. Also make sure that you’ve installed the latest online banking app.

Do all payment methods require verification?

No, you can set direct debit as your preferred payment option. This payment method doesn’t require additional verification steps.