Retail therapy works best when you know that your online transactions are completely safe and secure. Our SafeKey tool promises you an extra layer of guaranteed protection when shopping online. Now you can check items off your wish list from the comforts of your home with the assured security of SafeKey.
What is American Express SafeKey?


American Express® SafeKey provides a layer of fraud protection at participating merchants as part of our continuous efforts to provide a safer and more secure online shopping environment. You may be asked to enter a One-Time Password when making online purchases at participating merchant websites.
Important steps to enhance your Card security
If you love to shop online, it’s important to stay safe. SafeKey makes the process secure so you can focus on the fun part – choosing what to buy.

How does it work?
During the checkout process at participating SafeKey merchants, we may send a One-Time security code to the mobile phone number and/or e-mail address that your Card is linked to. We ask that you enter the One-Time security code into the merchant website in order to complete the transaction.


Ensure that the mobile phone number and e-mail address is updated for all of your primary and additional American Express Cards. You may update your contact information during the SafeKey checkout process, through our Online Services or by calling the number on the back of your Card.
What are the benefits?
SafeKey is easy to use and lets you shop online without any security concerns.
Here’s how:
Enhances Card security
Easy to use
No additional cost
Improved verification for added security
Other service and security benefits

Online privacy
The American Express privacy principles and
policies safeguard your personal data.

Prevent Phishing
It’s better to be safe than sorry.
Find out ways to protect yourself from phishing.

Card Fraud Protection
Our Fraud Protection Guarantee
lets you shop without safety concerns.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is American Express SafeKey?
American Express SafeKey is an authentication service which helps prevent unauthorized use of your American Express Card online by confirming your identity with additional verification information. You may be asked to provide a dynamic One-time Code (OTC) that you receive by email or at your mobile phone number for transactions you make with participating online merchants. - How do I shop with American Express SafeKey?
When you enter your American Express Card number for payment at a participating online merchant, an American Express SafeKey window will appear automatically. You will be prompted to enter some additional information for verification purposes, which may include an OTC, which will be sent to the mobile phone and/or email address on file for that account. Once you enter the information requested and it is verified, your online transaction will be processed. In some instances, you may be prompted to enter the three-digit number on the back of your Card (3CSC), an OTC, or both the 3CSC and OTC. After the OTC is sent to you, it is valid for 10 minutes. If you do not enter the OTC and complete your transaction during the 10 minutes, you will need to restart the transaction with the merchant. - Do I have to pay for American Express SafeKey?
No, American Express does not charge a fee for this service.
Additional Cards. Additional Cards are not applicable to Corporate Cards.