3D Secure protection for more peace of mind

3D Secure (3DS) adds an extra layer of protection to online shopping or giving. With 3DS enabled, you have 2-step authentication on every online transaction—so no payments will ever go through unless you authorize

 

What is 3D Secure protection?

3D Secure is an additional step you can enable to happen every time a card transaction is made online. It enhances security measures for shoppers and vendors alike. When you turn on 3D Secure, you’ll be asked to validate every transaction with your PIN code.

3D stands for “three domains.” The first is the card issuer; second, the retailer receiving the payment; and third is the 3DS infrastructure platform that acts as a secure go-between for the consumer and the retailer.

 

3D Secure—how does it work?

When you make a payment for an online purchase, 3DS technology gauges if further safekeeping is needed to make sure that you are the rightful card owner. If so, you’ll be directed to a 3DS page and asked for a password or PIN.

Simultaneously, your bank generates a one-off PIN and sends it to your phone via SMS. This is the PIN you’ll need to enter before you can complete the transaction.

 

Advantages of 3D Secure technology

The process was developed by Visa and is now licensed to Mastercard, so most major card providers already use this technology. And just because 3D Secure is enabled doesn’t mean you’ll always have to enter a PIN—you’ll only have to complete this step if your bank notices a possible security issue.

 

Is there a downside to 3DS?

Some users can find it difficult to tell if a 3D Secure pop-up is legitimate, as they can direct you away from the payment site. Users often mistake these pages for phishing scams. But 3D Secure only uses one-off codes, so none of your other details should ever be at risk.

3DS also adds time on to the checkout process when you verify yourself—but isn’t keeping your information safe worth a few extra seconds?