Is it safe to use my credit
card online?
Firstly,
the misleading part of this question is the word 'online'. When
you hand over your credit card at your local DIY shop you are
giving your credit card and verification numbers along with a
copy of your signature to a complete stranger. There is also the
risk that this information can be obtained by potentially anyone
who works there and can subsequently be used fraudulently. The
issue of shopping safety is therefore not limited to online
transactions.
Online and mail order credit
card fraud in 2005 represented 42% of all credit card fraud (source:
Card Watch)
and although this type of fraud is still rising it serves to
demonstrate that card safety is not just an 'online' problem.
Credit card companies are working very
hard to reduce and detect fraud, due in part to the fact that
they insure your liability against it. Most major cards will
offer forms of protection against fraud and identity theft and
you should check the terms of your agreement with them to see
their policy on this.
This type of protection coupled with some
of the tips of safe online shopping listed on this site will
answer the question; 'Yes, it is safe to use my credit card
online'.
Tips to
stay safe with your credit card;
-
Check the policy of your
credit card provider to see what protection they offer against
online fraud.
-
Make sure that you only
provide personal information to 'secure sites'.
-
Never respond to e-mails or
other requests for your card details. Legitimate credit card
companies will never do this.
