Shopping Online With Credit Cards? Here Is 10 Easy Steps To Be Safe

Do you shop online? Do you pay bills online with your credit card? Do you think a credit card is safe to use online?

If your answer is "YES" to at least one of the questions, please read below before using your credit card online again. There are some simple tips that can help you to safeguard yourselves against online credit card theft.

1. Check for fraud protection

Check with your credit card issuer if they provide fraud protection for online purchases. No fraud protection means less safety.

2. Check for temporary credit card number

Some credit card companies offer a temporary credit card number linking to your original credit card. Check with your credit card company if they offer such a thing. If yours doesn't offer such a card then it's always safer to use a credit card with a lower credit limit.

3. Check your computer

Having the latest antivirus software will protect you from trespassers who try to steal your information. Use a browser with 128-bit encryption, which provides maximum security.

4. Check the website

Before entering your personal information check for the lock sign in the bottom status bar of the Internet browser.

5. Check the online merchant

Only buy things from a well-known, trusted merchant. If the merchant is new always check with the local business bureau for any complaints before you buy things from them. Always read the privacy policies, terms and conditions, delivery and return polices.


6. Avoid out of country merchants

Though there are lots of good legal shopping merchants in other countries, it's always difficult to find reliable and trustworthy sellers among them. If you are doubtful, avoid doing business with them since most of the credit card companies will not give much support for international frauds.

7. Keep records.

Maintain all the receipts of your credit card purchases and compare them with your credit card statement. If there are any discrepancies contact your credit card company immediately. If you are a frequent online shopper, don't forget to check your credit card statements often.

8. Know the procedure

You should know what to do and whom to contact when your credit card information is stolen. Keep the phone numbers/contact person name handy so that you can act immediately without wasting time and losing more money.

9. Maintain a diary

If you are a frequent shopper keep records of all your purchases like order number, confirmation number and date of purchase in a diary. If you use more than one credit card, keeping a diary is a must. Even if you lose some of the purchase receipts, your diary will come handy when you check your credit card statement. You know it's easier to lose receipts than a diary.

10. Few more "optional" tips

When you are online shopping don't move from your seat till you are finished and logged out. Make this a habit even when you are using a home computer. Don't do multi tasks.

Online shopping is more fun and easy. Make it safer with these simple steps. "Better Safe than Sorry".