Prevent Online Fraud with American Express SafeKey

American Express SafeKey is a fraud reduction tool that prevents unauthorized online use before it happens by confirming the Cardmember's identify with an additional password.

Cardmembers enroll in the authentication program with their Card issuer to receive an added layer of fraud protection.

Participating merchants will display the American Express SafeKey logo on their website.

1. Cardmember Initiates Checkout

The Cardmember completes the online form on the merchant's website by supplying their name, card type, card number, and initiates checkout by clicking the 'buy' button.

2. System Checks Cardmember Enrollment

When the Cardmember clicks the 'buy' button, the Merchant Plug-In sends a message to the appropriate card payment network to see if the Cardmember is enrolled in the program.

3. Authentication Window Is Presented

If the Cardmember is enrolled, a frame is displayed on the merchant's website which prompts the Cardmember to enter a password. The authentication window URL will always contain amexsafekey.com.

4. Password Is Verified With Bank

After the Cardmember enters their password, the request is sent to the issuing bank and compared to the password on file.

5. Transaction Is Accepted or Rejected

If the password or other secure data matches, the transaction is authenticated and payment processing continues. If the password or other secure data does not match, the Cardmember is not authenticated and the transaction is presumed to be fraudulent.