Tech Bytes: MasterCard in Deal with Net Access Provider

Concentric Network Corp., a nationwide Internet service provider, announced an agreement to furnish Internet access kits with pre-installed security software to MasterCard cardholders.

Using software that conforms to the MasterCard-Visa Secure Electronic Transactions protocol, Concentric wants to make it easier to process credit card payments over the Internet.

"One key to growing the electronic marketplace is giving customers secure and simple payment solutions," said Steve Mott, MasterCard's senior vice president overseeing electronic commerce initiatives. "The Concentric Network kit provides a seamless, user-friendly way for consumers to confidently make purchases on the Internet."

MasterCard member banks can distribute Concentric's kit to their customers. As the customer registers the browser by dialing a bank-provided phone number, the customer would receive authenticating information from a digital certificate authority.