Online merchant authorization, also called 3D Secure (3DS2), is an extra security check on your Branch Card for some online purchases. When a merchant requests authorization, you approve or decline the purchase in the Branch App before the purchase goes through. Online merchant authorization is required on every Branch Card and can't be turned off.
What is online merchant authorization?
Online merchant authorization is a security check that confirms you're the person making an online purchase with your Branch Card. When a merchant asks for this check, Branch sends you a push notification. You review the merchant name and purchase amount in the Branch App, then approve or decline the purchase.
Online merchant authorization is sometimes called 3D Secure, 3DS, 3DS2, online purchase approval, online purchase verification, or online verification. These names all refer to the same check.
Who does online merchant authorization apply to?
Online merchant authorization applies to everyone with an active physical or digital Branch Card, including both 1099 workers and W-2 employees.
When will I be asked to approve a purchase?
Merchants choose which online purchases need authorization, so not every online purchase needs approval. In-store purchases and recurring charges, such as subscriptions or bills paid with your card on file, don't need approval.
When a merchant requests authorization, the merchant's checkout page shows a message that tells you to approve the purchase in the Branch App. For example, if you buy a $75 order from an online retailer and the retailer requests authorization, you get a push notification from Branch before the order goes through.
Why does Branch use online merchant authorization?
Branch uses online merchant authorization to protect your money and to meet Mastercard security requirements for online purchases.
- It confirms the purchase is yours. Only you can approve the purchase, from the Branch App on your phone.
- It stops purchases from stolen card details. If someone gets your Branch Card number, they can't complete a purchase that requires authorization without your approval.
- It shows you the details first. You see the merchant name and exact amount before you approve, so you can decline anything you don't recognize.
Can I turn off online merchant authorization?
No. Online merchant authorization (3D Secure) can't be turned off, opted out of, or disabled for your Branch Card, and Branch Support can't turn it off for you. Branch turned on online merchant authorization for all Branch Cards, and Mastercard requires this security check for online purchases when a merchant requests it.
Online merchant authorization doesn't apply to every purchase. You only approve online purchases where the merchant requests it.
Related Articles
- How do I approve an online purchase?
- Troubleshooting Online Merchant Authorization (3D Secure)
- How do I lock & unlock the Branch card?
- How do I file a dispute?
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Branch is not a bank. Banking services are provided by Lead Bank, Member FDIC and Evolve Bank & Trust, Member FDIC, which are Branch’s bank partners. The name of the bank partner for your account is listed on the back of your debit card and can also be found in the Branch App under “Your Account Information”. FDIC insurance only applies to eligible accounts should the bank holding your funds fail. Branch Mastercard Debit Cards are issued by Evolve Bank & Trust or Lead Bank, Member FDIC, as applicable, pursuant to a license from Mastercard and may be used everywhere Mastercard debit cards are accepted.