What are 'keystoke patterns'?

What are keystroke patterns?

Keystrokes are one way of ensuring it’s you using card to make an online purchase.

When typing – on a laptop, smartphone or tablet – you have a unique rhythm. For example, the speed at which you type and how heavily you press the keys. This information informs your keystroke pattern. 

It’s important to note that we will never use keystroke patterns to uniquely identify you as a cardholder. 

Why is information about my keystroke patterns collected?

A new requirement of the second Payment Services Directive (PSD2) for electronic payments, like those you make online using your card, has come into effect called Strong Customer Authentication (SCA). 

Under this new legislation, you may be required to complete two-factor authentication when shopping online. This provides an extra layer of account protection and is a way to reduce the risk of fraud. 

Your card, under the entity of GVS Prepaid, will be collecting and using keystroke pattern information as part of your account two-factor authentication.This information will be used only by GVS Prepaid and will not be shared with any third-party companies, other than those we specifically instruct to help us comply with the Strong Customer Authentication requirement.

In the event your keystroke pattern is unsuccessful in helping authenticate you as the transaction maker when using your card online – the transaction might be declined. If this event, you will be shown a phone number which you can call to review or challenge this decision with our Customer Service team. 

How can I find out more about GVS Prepaid's data practices?

For general information about data practices from GVS Prepaid's parent company, Blackhawk Network Inc. and its affiliated companies, including information about international transfers of data, retention practice and your rights as individuals, please refer to our Privacy Policy.