How does enabling buyer authentication during checkout directly impact conversion rates?

Enabling buyer authentication during checkout can have a mixed impact on conversion rates. While it increases security and reduces the risk of fraud, it can also introduce friction into the checkout process, potentially leading to lower conversion rates. Strong Customer Authentication (SCA), such as 3D Secure (e.g., Verified by Visa, Mastercard SecureCode), requires buyers to provide additional verification, like a one-time passcode sent to their phone. This added step can deter some customers who prefer a faster, simpler checkout experience. However, for higher-value transactions or in regions where SCA is mandated, enabling buyer authentication can increase customer trust and confidence, potentially leading to higher conversion rates among security-conscious shoppers. The net impact on conversion rates depends on factors such as the target audience, the value of the goods being sold, and the specific implementation of the authentication process. Carefully monitoring conversion rates before and after implementing authentication is crucial to determine its overall effectiveness. It's a trade-off between security and convenience, and the optimal balance depends on the specific business context.