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3DS Step-up Retries is a Pesaswap feature designed to improve the success rate of non-3DS card payments. If a non-3DS transaction fails with an error suggesting a 3D Secure (3DS) authentication could resolve the issue, Pesaswap automatically retries the payment with 3DS authentication on the same payment processor. 3DS Step-up retries: These retries are applicable when errors are identified in non-3DS payments that can be resolved by attempting 3DS authentication. Examples of errors that can be addressed through 3DS authentication include, but are not limited to, fraud-related errors and 3DS authentication-required errors.

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Why Use 3DS Step-up Retry?

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How It Works

  1. A non-3DS payment attempt fails.
  2. Pesaswap detects a retryable error (e.g., fraud or 3DS required).
  3. Pesaswap automatically retries the same transaction with 3DS enabled using the same processor.
  4. The user is prompted to complete the 3DS challenge.
  5. If successful, the payment proceeds; if not, it fails gracefully.

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Example Errors That Trigger Step-up Retry

  • Card issuer requires 3DS
  • Fraud-related soft declines
  • “Authentication Required” error messages

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Supported Processors

Currently supported processors for 3DS Step-up Retries include:
  • Bluesnap
  • Stripe
To request support for other processors, please submit a feature request to info@pesaswap.com

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How to Enable 3DS Step-up Retry

To activate this feature:
  1. Email your request to info@pesaswap.com.
  2. Include confirmation from your end that you want to enable 3DS Step-up Retry for your business profile.

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Frequently Asked Questions

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🔹 What is the user experience like?

  • Initially, the customer enters their card details as usual.
  • If the payment fails and 3DS Step-up is triggered, the customer will see a 3DS challenge screen (e.g., OTP or biometric).
  • After completing 3DS, the payment is retried and processed.

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🔹 What’s the difference between Smart Retry and 3DS Step-up Retry?

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🔹 What if a failure qualifies for both Smart Retry and 3DS Step-up Retry?

Pesaswap will prioritize 3DS Step-up Retry because:
  • It reduces chargeback risk.
  • It enforces authentication for potentially risky transactions.
  • It maintains consistency by using the same processor.