Introduction to Visa Alias Directory

Thredd integrates with Visa Alias Directory through APIs that allow a cardholder to link their card number with a commonly-used identifier, for example, an email address. A cardholder can safely share their chosen identifier without revealing their card number, allowing a more secure and seamless payment flow. Should the cardholder switch credentials for the alias, a Payer will automatically use the new credentials as these are always linked to the alias.

This feature enables you to:

• Safeguard the payment credentials of cardholders.
• Allow cardholders to enjoy a more seamless payment experience.
• Enable cardholders to reuse payment credentials across multiple instruments.

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Note

This feature is targeted to self-issuers only.

How it Works

Visa Alias Directory Service includes APIs from that enable a client to develop end user apps which include cardholder alias and payment credential management. The APIs enable a client to store and query alias information in Visa's Alias Directory. Using the cardholder's alias information in the directory, the Payer makes a payment, and the Acquirer queries the directory to resolve the alias. This ensures that the Payee at the Issuer's bank receives the payment to their credentials.

Setting Up Aliasing

Setting up aliasing requires the following steps:

1. Register with Visa, where they will provide you with a Participant ID.
2. Initiate a project with Thredd, ensuring that you provide the Participant ID.
3. Integrate the alias APIs with your user interface.
4. Obtain user interface sign off from Visa. This ensures that you can use the APIs in the Production environment.