What are the best ways to protect your credit card information when shopping online?

1 Use a secure website

One of the first things you should do when shopping online is to check if the website you are using is secure. A secure website encrypts your data and prevents unauthorized access or interception. You can tell if a website is secure by looking at the URL. It should start with https, not http, and have a padlock icon next to it. You can also click on the padlock icon to see the details of the website's security certificate. Avoid entering your credit card information on websites that are not secure, as they may expose your data to hackers or phishing attacks.

3 Use a virtual credit card

A virtual credit card is a service that generates a temporary credit card number that you can use for online purchases. It is linked to your actual credit card account, but it has a different number, expiration date, and security code. This way, you can protect your real credit card information from being exposed or stolen online. A virtual credit card also lets you set limits on how much, how often, and where you can use it. You can get a virtual credit card from some banks, credit card issuers, or third-party apps.

4 Use a trusted payment service

A trusted payment service is a platform that acts as an intermediary between you and the online merchant. It allows you to pay for your online purchases without sharing your credit card information with the seller. Some examples of trusted payment services are PayPal, Apple Pay, Google Pay, and Venmo. These services use encryption and other security measures to protect your data and offer fraud protection and dispute resolution options. To use a trusted payment service, you need to create an account and link it to your credit card or bank account.

5 Monitor your credit card statements

The last way to protect your credit card information online is to monitor your credit card statements regularly. You should check your statements for any unauthorized or suspicious charges, such as ones that you don't recognize, that are too high, or that are from unknown merchants. If you notice any errors or signs of fraud, you should report them to your credit card issuer as soon as possible. You should also review your credit reports periodically to see if there are any accounts or inquiries that you did not initiate.

By following these tips, you can reduce the risk of online fraud and keep your credit card information safe. Online shopping can be a great way to save time and money, but it also requires some caution and responsibility. Remember to always shop on secure websites, use strong passwords, use virtual credit cards, use trusted payment services, and monitor your credit card statements.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?