MasterCard Security

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is MasterCard® SecureCode™?
A: MasterCard SecureCode is a service to enhance your existing MasterCard account. A private code means added protection against unauthorized use of your card when you shop at participating online retailers.
Q: How does MasterCard SecureCode work?
A: Once you've registered and created your own private SecureCode, you will be automatically prompted by your financial institution at checkout to provide your SecureCode each time you make a purchase with a participating online merchant. Your SecureCode is quickly confirmed by your financial institution and then your purchase is completed. Your SecureCode will never be shared with the merchant. It’s just like entering your PIN at an ATM.
Q: How does MasterCard SecureCode protect me?
A: When you correctly enter your SecureCode during a purchase at a participating online merchant, you confirm that you are the authorized cardholder and your purchase is then completed. If an incorrect SecureCode is entered, the purchase will not be completed. Even if someone knows your credit card number, the purchase cannot be completed without your SecureCode at a participating merchant.
Q: How do I know whether a merchant participates in SecureCode?
A:

Most participating merchants will display the MasterCard SecureCode logo on their site. However, even if you don’t see the SecureCode logo, the merchant may still be a participant and you will be prompted to provide your SecureCode.
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Q: What card do I use? Will I need to get a new card to use MasterCard SecureCode?
A:

You will be able to use any of your existing MasterCard credit cards, as long as the cards are from a participating financial institution. If you’re not sure if your financial institution provides this service, please review our list of participating financial institutions. If you don’t see your financial institution listed, check back frequently as the list is updated.
Q: How many cards can I register with MasterCard SecureCode?
A:

We encourage you to register all of your MasterCard cards individually. There is no limit on how many cards you can register.
Q: Can two people with a joint account use the same password or should they register MasterCard SecureCode separately?
A: Enrollment is at the account level, so the password must be shared.
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Q: Can I use MasterCard SecureCode from any computer?
A: Because there’s no special software to install, you can shop from any computer meeting the system requirements outlined above and still receive the added protection afforded by MasterCard SecureCode.
Q: What happens when my card expires or my billing information changes?
A: Your card issuer will automatically update this information in your profile.
Q: What happens if I cancel my existing card, then get a new one with a different account number?
A: You will need to register the new card for MasterCard SecureCode. Simply return to the registration site, and complete the registration process with your new card.
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Q: How will the online merchant know that I’m registered for MasterCard SecureCode?
A:

When you use a card that is enrolled in the MasterCard SecureCode program at participating online merchants, the merchant automatically recognizes your MasterCard card number during the transaction.
Q: How will SecureCode change the online purchase process?
A: The online purchase process will not change except that now you will be prompted to provide your SecureCode during checkout. Your SecureCode will never be revealed to the merchant during the checkout process.
Q: Will I be able to make purchases at merchants that accept MasterCard but do not participate in the MasterCard SecureCode program?
A:

Yes, you will not be asked for your SecureCode during these purchases. You will continue to be protected from unauthorized purchases by Zero Liability from MasterCard.
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Q: I am a merchant who would like to offer SecureCode to my customers. How do I get more information?
A:

For information on participating in MasterCard SecureCode, please visit www.securecodemerchant.com.
Q: How is SecureCode different from Zero Liability?
A:

Using MasterCard SecureCode provides added security to prevent your card from unauthorized use. Exceptions apply. Zero Liability provides coverage if your card has been used fraudulently.
Q: Where can I view Terms and Conditions of the SecureCode program?
A:

Please visit your financial institution’s Web site for the Terms and Conditions specific to your card.
Q: Where can I review the privacy policy of my financial institution?
A:

Please visit your financial institution’s Web site to review the privacy policy specific to your card.
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*Signature is not required for purchases under the pre-specified floor limits at participating merchants.