3D Secure for Online Shoppers

What is 3D Secure?

3D Secure provides an extra step during the online payment process to ensure that only you, the cardholder, use your card. Also known as Verified by Visa, MasterCard SecureCode or Amex Safekey, it allows you to enter your previously selected PIN/Password or a One Time Pin - helping your bank to know it is you shopping online.

With an additional focus on the safety of e-commerce transactions, your bank may have already registered you for the service, or you may be required to register during your next online purchase.

Why do we have 3D Secure?

South African banks and e-commerce merchants are implementing 3D Secure to help protect you, the cardholder, against unauthorised use of your card when shopping online at 3D Secure merchants.

3D Secure allows you to authenticate yourself while making an online payment, therefore minimising the risk of someone else using your card fraudulently

How do you sign up?

ABSA, Nedbank, Standard Bank, First National Bank and Investec have pre-enrolled all Visa and MasterCard credit card clients for 3D Secure. All that you need to do is activate your card once. You can do so now by clicking on the link to your bank in the below section, or you will be invited to do it at a later stage when conducting an online purchase.

CLICK ON YOUR BANK BELOW:
ABSA
FNB
Standard Bank
Nedbank
Investec
Capitec

The benefits of 3D Secure

Online shopping is already very secure with high levels of security and encryption whenever you use your credit card. 3D Secure is the next layer up of security whereby your credit card is further protected from any unauthorised use. So you can shop in total confidence safe in the knowledge that your card is protected at all times.

How does it work?

If you have already registered or have been registered by your bank, you will be prompted with an additional screen requesting a One Time PIN (OTP) or a PIN/Password. OTPs are sent to the cellphone number your bank has on record for you, whilst a PIN or Password is a secret code you have chosen when you registered for 3D Secure or was provided to you by your bank at the time of issuing your card. Simply enter the OTP, PIN or password and proceed. If you have never registered or been registered for 3D Secure, you will be asked to register for 3D Secure when you make an online purchase. Simply follow the prompts on screen to register.

The first time you use your 3D Secure enabled credit card for shopping online, the bank that issued your credit card will request that you verify that you are in fact the correct cardholder by entering your pin or OTP.

How much does it cost?

There is no cost to you, the cardholder. Visa, MasterCard and the banks fund all SMS and other costs.

Does every South African online retailer use 3D Secure?

The Payment Association of South Africa (PASA) made it compulsory for all merchants to be 3D Secure enabled by 28 February 2014. This is a good thing as, while it may take a few seconds longer for each transaction, it will certainly strengthen the security of online shopping via credit card.

Have more questions?

If you have questions related to 3D Secure process or need to change your mobile number, please contact your bank for assistance.