2D Secure (2DS) in the context of cybersecurity
What is 2D Secure?
2D Secure (sometimes referred to as "two-dimensional security") is a basic level of online payment security that does not include additional authentication mechanisms such as one-time passwords (OTP) or biometrics. Unlike the more advanced 3D Secure protocol, 2D Secure is limited to checking the card's basic data (card number, expiration date, CVV code) without additional verification of the cardholder's identity.
2D Secure Risks
In the context of cybersecurity, 2D Secure is considered less secure than 3D Secure. The main risks include:
- No additional authentication:
- In 2D Secure, transactions are processed based on card details only, making them vulnerable to fraud if card details are stolen (e.g. through phishing or data leakage).
- Vulnerability to fraud:
- If an attacker gains access to the card details, they can easily use them for online purchases, as the system does not require verification of the cardholder's identity.
- Lack of protection against phishing:
- Since 2D Secure does not use additional verification mechanisms such as one-time passwords or biometrics, users are more susceptible to data tampering attacks.
Comparison: 2D Secure vs. 3D Secure
The 3D Secure protocol (e.g. Verified by Visa, Mastercard SecureCode) was developed to address the shortcomings of 2D Secure. The main differences are:
Feature | 2D Secure | 3D Secure |
Security level | Low | High |
Authentication | Basic (card details only) | Advanced (password, OTP, biometrics) |
Liability Shift | No | Yes (to the issuer, if authentication is followed) |
Risk of fraud | High | Low |
User experience | Convenient but less secure | More complex but safer |
Cybersecurity Implications of 2D Secure
- Vulnerability to carding attacks:
- Fraudsters often target 2D Secure systems because they are easier to exploit. For example, stolen card data obtained through phishing, skimming or data leaks can be used without further verification.
- Risks for traders:
- Merchants using 2D Secure face higher risks of chargebacks and financial losses due to fraud, and they also risk damaging their reputation if customers perceive their platform as unsafe.
- Risks for consumers:
- Cardholders are more vulnerable to unauthorized transactions when making purchases on platforms that use 2D Secure. This can lead to financial losses and the need to dispute fraudulent charges.
Why is 2D Secure still used?
Despite its shortcomings, 2D Secure remains popular in some regions and with certain merchants due to the following reasons:
- Ease of integration:
- 2D Secure is easier to implement into payment systems as it does not require complex authentication mechanisms.
- User convenience:
- The lack of additional steps makes the checkout process faster, which reduces the likelihood of purchase abandonment.
- Low cost:
- For merchants, 2D Secure is cheaper because it does not require additional technologies or licenses.
How to protect yourself when using 2D Secure?
If you use payment systems based on 2D Secure, it is important to take additional measures to protect yourself from fraud:
- Use virtual cards:
- Virtual cards with a limited balance and expiration date reduce the risk of losing funds in the event of a data breach.
- Transaction Monitoring:
- Set up notifications for every transaction to quickly detect suspicious activity.
- Avoid unsafe sites:
- Make sure the site you enter your card details on uses HTTPS and has a good reputation.
- Update your cards regularly:
- Request a card reissue every 1-2 years to minimize the risk of using outdated data.
- Switch to 3D Secure:
- If possible, use cards and payment systems that support 3D Secure for additional protection.
Conclusion
2D Secure is an outdated protocol that provides a minimum level of protection for online payments. In today's world of cyber threats, its use is associated with high risks of fraud. To improve security, it is recommended to switch to more secure protocols, such as 3D Secure, and apply additional security measures, including transaction monitoring and the use of virtual cards.