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What is strong customer authentication (SCA)?

strong cus - tom - er au - then - ti - ca - tion S C A
noun

Strong customer authentication (SCA) is a robust safety measure for online transactions, especially electronic payments. This critical safeguard goes beyond traditional single-factor authentication methods, requiring users to provide multiple layers of verification. These layers typically include something they know (such as a password or PIN), something they possess (such as a smartphone or token), and something they are (via biometric data like fingerprints or facial recognition).

The primary objective of SCA is to ensure comprehensive identity confirmation, significantly reducing the risk of fraudulent activities and unauthorized access to sensitive information. By enhancing transaction security, SCA not only safeguards consumers but also strengthens the overall protection of their accounts and financial assets.

How does strong customer authentication (SCA) work?

In practical terms, when an online transaction falls under the scope of SCA regulations, users may be prompted to provide additional authentication steps beyond simply entering their card details. These steps can require input in terms of knowledge (something only the user knows, like a password or code), possession (something only the user has, like their smartphone) and/or biometrics (something the user is, such as fingerprint, facial recognition, iris scan). These added layers of security create a robust shield against unauthorized access, promoting trust and confidence in the digital payment ecosystem.