3D Secure (3DS)

3D Secure (3DS) is an authentication protocol used to verify a cardholder's identity during online card transactions, reducing the risk of fraud. When a 3DS check is triggered, the customer is redirected to their bank to confirm the payment — typically via a one-time PIN, biometric verification or a banking app prompt. Most South African banks support 3DS for online card transactions. Dynamic 3DS applies authentication selectively, only triggering additional friction when a transaction is flagged as high risk, preserving conversion on low-risk payments.