Why "3DS" is the New Mandatory Standard for Your Online Payments?

If you’ve recently tried to check out online, you might have encountered a nudge to use a 3DS-enabled card. While it might look like a suggestion, the reality is that 3D Secure (3DS) has rapidly become a mandatory requirement for digital transactions globally.

Whether you're renewing a policy, booking travel, or shopping internationally, understanding 3DS is the key to ensuring your payments aren't just secure, but actually successful.

1. What exactly is 3DS?

3DS (Three-Domain Secure) is the "identity check" of the digital world. You likely know it by its consumer-facing names: Visa Secure, Mastercard Identity Check, or Amex SafeKey.

Unlike a standard checkout that only asks for your card number and CVV, 3DS adds a verification layer directly between you and your bank. It ensures that even if someone steals your card details, they can’t spend your money without passing a secondary test.

2. Why is it now mandatory?

In 2026, 3DS is no longer a "security choice" for merchants; it is a regulatory requirement.

• Global Regulations: Laws now require Strong Customer Authentication (SCA) for most online payments.
• The "Soft Decline": If you try to pay with a card that isn't 3DS-ready, many banks will now "soft decline" the transaction. This isn't because you lack funds; it's because the bank is legally barred from approving a payment that hasn't been properly verified.

3. How Will You Be Verified? (Types of Authentication)

Modern 3DS (version 2.0 and above) is designed to be fast. Depending on your bank, you might encounter one of these authentication methods:

• Biometric Verification: The gold standard. You simply use your fingerprint (Touch ID) or facial recognition (Face ID) on your smartphone to approve the transaction.
• App Push Notifications: Your banking app sends a notification. You tap "Approve," and the checkout page updates automatically.
• One-Time Passwords (OTP): A classic 6-digit code sent via SMS or email that you must enter manually.
• Frictionless Authentication: In many cases, you won't see anything at all! Your bank analyzes 100+ data points (like your device and location) to confirm it’s you. If everything looks normal, they verify the payment in the background without bothering you.

4. How to Find & Enable 3DS on Your Card

Most modern cards are 3DS-capable, but they may not be "active" until you've linked your current contact information. Here is how to make sure you’re ready:

• Check Your Banking App: Look under "Card Management" or "Security Settings." Most apps have a toggle for "Online/International Transactions." Ensure this is turned ON.
• Update Your Contact Info: This is the #1 reason 3DS fails. If your bank has an old phone number on file, you will never receive the code or notification needed to finish your purchase.
• The "First Purchase" Registration: For some banks, 3DS is activated the first time you use the card at a 3DS-supported checkout. You will see a pop-up from your bank asking you to set up a secure code. Do not close this window.

5. Troubleshooting: What to do if your payment fails

If a checkout tells you a 3DS-enabled card is required and yours isn't working, follow this checklist:

1. Disable Pop-up Blockers: 3DS screens often load in a separate window. If your browser blocks pop-ups, the payment will hang.
2. Turn off your VPN: Banks often block 3DS requests if they see you are browsing from a different country than your card's origin.
3. Call Your Bank: If all else fails, call the number on the back of your card. Ask them specifically: "Is my card enrolled in 3DS (Visa Secure/Mastercard Identity Check) and is my mobile number updated for OTPs?"

The Bottom Line

3DS is the new standard for a safer internet. While it adds a few seconds to your checkout, it provides the peace of mind that your transactions are compliant with global laws and protected from fraud.

By ensuring your card is 3DS-ready today, you’re making sure your next important payment goes through without a hitch.