This article examines whether access to payment services can
be both secure and user-friendly, challenging the traditional trade-off between
security and convenience. Rapid technological advancements over the past decade
suggest that this balance may be achievable through innovative solutions. The
study analyses the current application of strong customer authentication as
mandated by PSD2, with a particular focus on its accessibility for
disadvantaged user groups, including individuals affected by health conditions,
age-related limitations, or social exclusion. It then compares this framework
to the anticipated changes under PSD3 and PSR. The authors explore whether
technological progress justifies shifting from the existing requirement of
authentication using two distinct categories to a model allowing two different
authentication instruments, regardless of category, as proposed by PSR. The
analysis is based on both qualitative and quantitative research, drawing
empirical data primarily from the Czech Republic’s payment services market.