Finance glossary
3D Secure
Also known as: Verified by Visa, Mastercard SecureCode, Mastercard Identity Check
In simple terms
3D Secure is the extra verification step some websites use at checkout — such as approving the payment in your banking app — to confirm you are the real cardholder.
On this page
What does 3D Secure mean?
3D Secure is a security protocol used for online card payments, branded as Verified by Visa or Mastercard Identity Check. It adds a verification step to confirm the person paying is the genuine cardholder.
It is one of the main ways Strong Customer Authentication is delivered for card payments.
How 3D Secure works
At checkout, you may be asked to approve the payment in your banking app, enter a one-time passcode, or use biometrics. If the check passes, the payment goes through; if it fails, it is declined.
Successful 3D Secure authentication also shifts liability for certain fraud away from the retailer.
How could this affect me?
The extra step protects you against someone using your card details online. Make sure your bank has your current mobile number so codes and app prompts reach you.
As with all authentication, never approve a payment you did not make or share a code with anyone contacting you.
Things to watch out for
- Only approve payments you actually recognise.
- Keep your mobile number current so codes arrive.
- Never read out a one-time code to a caller.
General information, not personal advice
Consumer Credit is an independent information service. We do not provide regulated financial advice or sell financial products. For advice on your own situation, speak to an appropriately authorised firm or a free service such as MoneyHelper. About Consumer Credit.
Sources
We checked this page against these official and authoritative sources.
- UK Finance, Staying safe when shopping online (opens in a new tab). Accessed 22 Aug 2026.