The 3-D Secure authentication protocol was developed by Visa to bring the benefits of present card transactions to on-line purchases. The 3-D Secure protocol is embodied in different programs by the various Card Associations. For Visa it is known as "Verified By Visa" (VbV) program, for JCB it is known as "J/Secure", while for MasterCard it is part of the "SecureCode" program.

    Visa has begun the global rollout of the Authenticated Payment Program. The Program, based on commercial incentives, will vastly improve the payment service for e-merchants, consumers and Visa Members by enhancing convenience, acceptance and security. Consumers will know that they can shop safely and conveniently while preventing fraud on their card, and merchants will know they are dealing with a legitimate cardholder anywhere in the world. The newest authentication technology, 3-D SecureT, forms the basis for global interoperability of Authenticated Payments.

    MasterCard SecureCode is a new service to enhance MasterCard accounts. A private code means added protection against unauthorized use of Mastercard card when shopping at participating online merchants. Once the card holder have registered and created his own private SecureCode, he will be automatically prompted by his financial institution at checkout to provide his SecureCode each time he makes a purchase with a participating online merchant. The SecureCode is quickly confirmed by the financial institution and then the purchase is completed. The SecureCode will never be shared with the merchant. It's just like entering your PIN at an ATM.

e T 3 installs the authentication software at the merchant site and integrates it with the Merchant software as part of eT3's e-Secured Payment Solution