In partnership with Arab Financial Services
Ahli United Bank B.S.C, Bahrain's leading bank and one of the most reputed in the Middle East, has partnered with Arab Financial Services, the leading electronic payment processing provider in the region, to launch 3D Secure Services for the Bank's cardholders in Bahrain. 3D Secure is a free and automatic service which provides an added authentication layer, making online transactions safer and more secure.
Speaking on the launch, Mr. Shafqat Anwar, Deputy Group CEO - Operations and Technology, AUB, said: "Consumer confidence is vital for using cards for purchases online and we are pleased to introduce this latest protection feature as part of our ongoing commitment to making payment channels through the internet as safe and secure as possible for our valued customers. AFS is an acknowledged leader in providing advanced e-payment infrastructure and it was only natural to join forces with them in implementing this latest 3D-Secure initiative."
The 3D Secure authentication helps guard against the unauthorized use of credit and debit cards online by requiring a password that is only known to the cardholder. This 3D Secure password acts as a unique identifier of the legitimate cardholder and is used to validate online transactions with participating online retailers. AUB cardholders are therefore at a lower risk of fraudulent use if their cards are lost or stolen. Moreover, while a hacking incident may result in card details being made available to unscrupulous parties, there is no way for them to get the associated password, making online purchases safer than ever before.
Mr. B. Chandrasekhar, CEO, AFS, said: "Online card transactions are on the rise and it is important that banks tap into this opportunity. To help achieve this growth potential while mitigating the inherent risks of internet transactions, AFS introduced the 3D Secure service to the region in 2011. AUB is known to be at the forefront in providing best in class technologies and services and we are delighted for the opportunity to partner with the Bank on this important 3D-Secure initiative".
The 3D Secure Service is easy to set up. By visiting www.ahliunited.com and answering few basic security questions, a onetime password will be sent by SMS to the registered mobile number. Cardholder can then create his or her own password to use for online purchase purposes. For more information, customers can call 17221999.
© Press Release 2012
