Top 10 card fraud prevention tips for the e-shopping enthusiast

Top 10 card fraud prevention tips for the e-shopping enthusiast

So you've found something that you want to buy online, but need a bit of reassurance before you commit to paying. You'll probably want to make sure that your card data is being used responsibly and that your details aren't going to be compromised... here's what to look out for:

1. HTTPS: Hypertext Transfer Protocol more commonly known as Http is used for most webpages.  However when you come to entering your card details online, watch out for the change from http to https ensuring the page is using a secure connection.  However be warned, if not properly implemented, https is not fail safe so read on for some more top tips...
2. Padlock: Always ensure when you are entering card details, you can see a locked padlock or unbroken key symbol next to the address bar or at the bottom of the page.  Double clicking on the padlock symbol will display further security information for the site.
3. Website policies: Have a look for the sites Security policy.  This should detail what information they are going to collect and how they are going to use it.
4. 3D Secure: If you come across 3D Secure and haven’t registered, make sure you do.  3D Secure provides an additional layer of protection by asking you to enter a password that has been registered with your bank.   This way if your card information is obtained illegally, it will help to prevent funds being spent in your name.
5. Confirmation: Keep hold of any confirmation emails that you receive.  Always check goods against your card statements.  This way you can easily identify charges that you don’t recognise.
6. Payment Card Industry compliance: Make sure the retailer you are shopping with has some level of PCI compliance.  If you can’t find the information you’re looking for, don’t be afraid to contact the retailer and ask.
7. Contact details: It may sound obvious but make sure there are contact details on the site including a physical address.
8. Reviews: Check online for reviews.  With social media more popular than ever, if a customer has received bad service, the chances are they will have put it online.
9. Credit vs. Debit cards: Try using a credit card rather than debit-It will offer you more consumer protection.
10. Chargebacks: If you haven’t received your goods and are unable to contact the company in question, contact your bank for a chargeback

Before you type your card details into a website, ensure that the site is secure. Look out for a small padlock symbol in the address bar (or elsewhere in your browser window) and a web address beginning with https:// (the s stands for 'secure').
You also need to check that the website is trustworthy. Here are a few suggestions for ways in which you can reduce the risk of using an untrustworthy site:

• Be suspicious of offers that seem too good to be true. This could indicate that a site might be selling illegal or pirated items.

• If you're not familiar with the website, you could ask trusted friends, colleagues or family members for their opinion. They might be able to offer you recommendations for alternatives.