You can use your credit card online to make purchases and to pay for things like flights and hotel bookings. Using your credit card online can be dangerous, though, and there are a few things you can do to ensure you stay safe and your details are not compromised.
How to stay safe when using your credit card online
Up your online security settings:
First things first, when it comes to using your credit card online, make sure you have a good and up to date anti-virus program installed on your computer. This program should include things like anti-swpyware.
Another way to ensure you are safe when using your credit card online is to make sure your web browser and your operating system is up to date. Make sure you apply the highest level of security settings.
Make sure you know who you are buying from:
If you are using your credit cards online to purchase something from before, make sure you know exactly who they are and that their systems are secure. There are many people who create fake sites in an attempt to teal money from people. Look for merchant views if there are any available and take down phone numbers and physical addresses so that you can get in touch if there are any issues.
When you are using your credit card online, it’s better to shop with a merchant you know and trust, rather than somebody you have never heard of before. If you have good anti-virus and anti-spyware installed, your computer should tell you and warn you of any fraudulent sites.
If a random merchant you have never heard of before sends you an email prompting you to use your credit card online, it’s more than likely a scam site. Avoid clicking links and entering sensitive information into sites you do not know and you have never heard of.
Remember, if you are unsure or the deal sounds too good to be true, it probably is! Always trust your gut when it comes to using your credit card online, rather be safe than sorry.