10 top tips to help prevent card fraud when shopping online.

10 top tips to help prevent card fraud when shopping online.

So you’ve found something that you want to buy on a website but need a bit of reassurance before you commit to paying. You’ll want to make sure that your card data is being used properly and that your details aren’t going to be used inappropriately. Here are our 10 top tips to help you shop safe online.

1. Padlock: Before you enter any personal details ensure there is a padlock symbol with the https label at the top of the page. This tells you it’s a secure page. You can click on the padlock for more security information about the website you are on.

2. HTTPS: (Hypertext Transfer Protocol) When you shop online, before you enter your personal details, make sure the page is labelled as ‘https’ at the top. This tells you it’s a secure page. This alone isn’t enough so read the other 9 top tips for more safety advice.

3. Website policies: It’s a good idea to look at the websites security policy. This tells you what information they collect, what they keep if any and what they are going to do with it.

4. 3D Secure: 3D secure is a system implemented by your bank that asks you for a password to authorise your transaction. A window will pop up when you enter your card details asking for your password. You will only see this if you have registered for this system with your bank and the website you are using has activated the system.

5. Check Everything: Keep a copy of all of the emails you receive regarding the transaction. Keep the confirmation emails and always check your bank statements against your purchases so you spot any unauthorised activity on your account straight away.

6. PCIC: (Payment Card Industry compliance) The retailer should be PCIC compliant. This legislation ensures they properly manage customer data and it is safeguarded. If there is no evidence on the site to confirm they are PCI compliant, they still may be so call them and ask if you’re not sure.

7. Who are they: This is a really basic one but who are they? Make sure they have contact details available in case you need to contact them. Why wouldn’t they want to display their contact details?

8. Do your homework: The web is a powerful tool. Use it to search for the site. Lots of companies have social media profiles, facebook, twitter, Google+ so why not spend a few minutes checking them out?

9. Credit or Debit card: Credit cards offer more consumer protection should the worst happen and things go wrong. They can be paid off quickly to prevent charges.

10. What if it goes wrong: If you have paid by credit card and haven’t received your goods and are unable to contact the company, contact your bank for a chargeback. They will talk you through the process and help you recover your money.