Visa Secure

Visa Secure is Visa's implementation of the 3-D Secure 2.0 authentication protocol, replacing the earlier "Verified by Visa" system. This security framework adds an extra verification layer during online checkout to confirm the cardholder's identity and prevent unauthorized transactions.

During checkout, Visa Secure prompts cardholders to authenticate through one-time passcodes (SMS or email), biometric verification (fingerprint, face recognition), mobile banking app approval, or device recognition. The 3DS 2.0 protocol enables risk-based authentication, allowing low-risk transactions to proceed with minimal friction while requiring stronger verification for higher-risk purchases.

Visa Secure offers enhanced security through multi-factor authentication rather than static passwords. The system provides better mobile support with in-app authentication, enables frictionless verification for trusted customers, and shares more transaction data with issuers for improved fraud detection. These improvements create a smoother user experience while strengthening fraud protection. Visa Secure effectively combats card-not-present fraud and account takeover attempts by requiring access to the cardholder's registered devices or accounts. Even if fraudsters obtain payment credentials, they typically cannot complete authentication without the cardholder's phone, email access, or biometric data.

For merchants, Visa Secure provides liability shift protection—when 3DS authentication is used, fraud liability typically transfers from the merchant to the issuing bank. For cardholders, it offers enhanced security for online purchases at no additional cost.