3D Secure Information
Including info about the Verified by Visa (VbV) and Mastercard Securecode (MSC) Schemes
3D Secure (also known as Verified by Visa and Mastercard Securecode) was introduced by Visa in 2001 and is an online security system for debit and credit card transactions (basically, an online version of the 'Chip and Pin' system used in most high street shops).
Using a 3D Secure enabled card for the 1st time....
When a card that is 3D Secure enabled is first used, a window appears asking the card user to register the card with the 3D Secure network.
This involves setting up a password to be used for future online payments using the card.
The image below shows the windows that appear on the Sagepay website when a 3D Secure card is first used to register a password
Sagepay are the payment processors we use for card transactions on our website
Using 3D Secure after registration and for future transactions....
Once a card has been set up with a password, the card owner will be asked for the password in a window before the payment is processed.
Please Note: The password that is set up on the card will be valid for any future payments using the card on a website that is 3D enabled (not just the site or payment processor where the card was first registered!).
The 3D Secure system is linked directly to the card issuers &/or banks systems and it is the card issuers/banks that store the information relating to the card.
The image below shows the window that appears on the Sagepay website when a 3D Secure card is used to pay for further transactions (after the initial use and registration)
Sagepay are the payment processors we use for credit/debit card transactions on our website
If you have any questions about the 3D secure system please contact your bank or card issuer directly as they SHOULD be able to give you more information.
Important point to remember....
3D Secure (including Verified by Visa and Mastercard Secure Code) are ONLY to be used when completing a transaction online (where you enter the card details on a secure page on a website or through a recognised payment processor).
You should NEVER give out your password to a retailer (or anyone) over the phone, through an email or face to face (e.g. if the retailer is using an online terminal in a shop).
If someone phones claiming to be from your 'bank' and asks for either your 3D Secure password or your Chip and Pin number, just tell them to 'Foxtrot Oscar' and put the phone down (no bank or card company employees who call customers would ever have access to these details!)
Other 3D Secure info sites....
Wikipedia article about 3D Secure