What is 3D secure authentication and how does it work?

What is 3D secure authentication?

It is a fraud prevention measure launched in 2001 by Visa (as Verified-by-Visa) and is now backed and recognised by credit and debit card providers Mastercard (as Mastercard Secure Code) and American Express (as American Express SafeKey).

3D Secure™ is one of the key security features of online payments through a payment gateway. It’s an additional step to help protect customers against card payment fraud.

How does 3D secure work?

The 3D Secure authentication is an additional fraud prevention scheme that is available to all companies using the Opayo / Sage & Stripe system to process transactions. This also includes Visa or MasterCard holders and is an extra authentication for online card transactions.

It allows a consumer to prove they are the cardholder to the card issuer, typically by entering a one-time password, or via biometrics (a facial or fingerprint scan etc.).

If the security system is activated for your card, a 3D Secure™ window will open. Your bank will ask you to verify your identity by entering an authentication code.

In this new window you are normally asked to provide either:

Sometimes you won’t be asked to provide any details at all. After you enter the right details and the payment is approved by the card provider, you’re then automatically sent back to the website with an order confirmation message. It’s a quick and simple process.

What are the benefits of 3D secure?

3D Secure™ gives an added level of security for our customers, helping to stop debit and credit card fraud.

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