Until recently a merchant could not guarantee a would-be buyer was the actual cardholder. To eliminate this risk, Visa and MasterCard developed processes (Verified by Visa 3D Secure and SecureCode) making it compulsory for cardholders to verify their identity to their bank at the point of online purchase.

Realex Payments include 3DSecure free of charge in their RealPay package. Internet merchants can benefit from using this process because it helps eliminate the risk of charge-backs. It also makes buyers more comfortable because it ensures a high level of protection against fraudulent card usage.