How secure are credit cards?

From 3D Secure to liability in case of misuse: how well your credit card payments are protected.

4 min read

Modern security features

Credit cards today have several layers of protection:

  • EMV chip instead of insecure magnetic stripe
  • 3D Secure (e.g. Visa Secure, Mastercard Identity Check) for online payments
  • Two-factor authentication via app or SMS
  • Real-time notifications for every transaction

Liability in case of misuse

For unauthorized debits, you are usually only liable up to a maximum of €50 — and only in case of gross negligence. Report loss or theft immediately via the blocking hotline 116 116.