With just a few clicks you can buy anything from a new pair of clothes to groceries even without leaving your home. Online shopping with credit cards is common and pretty safe these days. But risks of ID theft and financial fraud are always there. While we are unable to control things like cybersecurity threats, ID theft, and credit card fraud, we can shop smartly to make it difficult for cyber criminals to hack into sensitive details to commit fraudulent activities.
Luckily, there are several ways to protect yourself safe when shopping online and keep your credit card details from getting stolen by cybercriminals. Below are some proven tips to keep your credit card safe when shopping online.
Use a Private Device and a Secure Connection
Whenever you want to buy something online, do it in private without using prying public computers. Computers available in internet cafes or libraries can save account details and other information to leave your account vulnerable to the very next user. The risks of spyware installed are also there when you use public devices. This is the reason; you should use a personal device with a secure internet connection. If the connection is not secure, you can opt for reliable VPN software to keep your transaction and credit card details protected.
Shop From Known, and Trusted Stores
No matter whether you are using the best credit card with features like extended warranties and purchase protection, you should choose stores that are known and trusted to you. If you are not familiar with an eCommerce website or online store, do proper research before you execute an online transaction with them. If the overall design and layout of the online store is looking unprofessional, opt for another store to find and buy the stuff you need.
S in URL Is for Secure
Before you submit your credit card details for payment, make sure the web page is secure with HTTPS in the URL. S in the URL is for secure, so find the HTTPS instead of HTTP in the website URL to ensure that the details you will submit will automatically be encrypted. Choosing secure online stores can help you prevent opportunistic scams when shopping online.
Use your Credit Card App’s Security Features
Credit card mobile apps usually come with advanced security features to help users prevent fraudulent activities. For instance, a credit card user can set up two-factor authentication to keep a credit card safe and secure. If someone finds your credit card details and wants to use it somewhere, the two-factor authentication feature will block him/her from accessing more information that is necessary to make a successful payment. it adds a security layer to your details as the user needs to provide an OTP or PIN usually sent via text message or email. Credit card apps also send real-time alerts and notifications whenever a credit card is being used.
Get Virtual Account Numbers
Some credit card providers offer virtual numbers that can be used for online transactions and payments. A virtual credit card number is a temporary number that cardholders can use for online shopping and payments. In this way, the original card number is not exposed during a purchase or payment transaction. As a result, cybercriminals cannot get the real number of your credit card to use for fraudulent activity.
Use Security Software
A lot of security software and solutions are available that can keep your devices protected from malware and viruses. Since more of us use mobile devices for online shopping, this makes us more vulnerable to cybercriminals. So, choose security software that is designed for both desktops and mobile devices. Such security software can help you prevent suspicious links and stores to stay safe.
Some Additional Security Tips
Here are some basic security tips to keep your credit card safe during online shopping:
• As some companies offer special credit cards for online purchases, you can opt for the best credit card that comes with extensive security measures and other benefits.
• Set up to get alerts via SMS or email so you can be notified whenever your card is used.
• If an online store allows you to check out as a guest, do it instead of creating an account and submitting your credit card details.
• Create strong and hard-to-guess passwords for all your online accounts so no one can access them easily.
• Update your devices regularly as these updates usually patch security holes to provide you with a safer experience.
