person holding credit card swipe machine

7 Things That You Should NOT Do When Shopping Online with Your Credit Card

For many shoppers, credit cards have become the go-to payment method for online shopping and it’s easy to see why. Beyond offering unparalleled convenience by allowing you to complete transactions with just a few clicks, credit cards also come with built-in protections like fraud detection, purchase dispute options, and secure payment technologies. These features make credit cards an ideal choice for navigating the digital marketplace with confidence.

Needless to say, it’s always a good idea to invest in the safest credit card available to you. However, any credit card is only as safe as its user. While card issuers work tirelessly to guard against fraud, certain risks can only be mitigated by proactive and cautious behavior on your part. Carelessness or neglecting simple safety measures when shopping online can expose your sensitive information and lead to financial loss.

To help you shop smartly and securely, this article will explore key mistakes to avoid when using a credit card for online purchases.

Not Using Virtual Credit Card Numbers and Dynamic CVVs

Would you hand out your actual credit card to a stranger, knowing they might copy the details? That’s essentially what happens when you make transactions without exploring virtual credit card options. These digital security tools generate temporary numbers tied to your main account that will expire after a specified period. They limit exposure to fraud, as the disposable number becomes useless after a single use or specific transaction.

Similarly, credit cards like Maya’s Landers Cashback Everywhere credit card come with a dynamic CVV that is only valid for 24 hours and changes every time you access your card details through the Maya app. When you skip out on such features, you’re missing out on extra layers of security that are easy to set up and invaluable for protecting your account. 

Shopping on Unsecured Websites

Don’t let the wealth of enticing deals you see online distract you from a site’s security. An unprotected website is an open door for hackers to intercept your financial information. Before entering your card details, always check that the website’s URL begins with “https” and features a padlock icon somewhere on the address bar. These signs indicate encrypted communication between your browser and the website, which is one of the best ways to keep your data safe. Don’t ignore this step in favor of saving a few seconds of your time; it will cost you far more in the long run. 

Using Public Wi-Fi for Purchases

Public Wi-Fi networks may seem like a convenient way to save on mobile data, but they can be a digital minefield when it comes to security. These networks are often unencrypted, which makes it alarmingly easy for cybercriminals to intercept the data you send and receive. Any online purchase you make while connected to public Wi-Fi comes with the risk of exposing your credit card details to prying eyes. Ideally, you should only shop using your own private connection. If you must shop on the go, consider using your own mobile data network or encrypting your connection with a virtual private network or VPN.

Saving Your Card Details

The convenience of letting websites store your credit card information for future purchases always comes at a cost. Data breaches are an ever-present risk, and if a retailer’s database is compromised, your stored card information could fall into the wrong hands. For your security, it’s best to just manually enter your card details each time you shop. It might take a few extra seconds, but it significantly reduces your vulnerability to large-scale data theft.

Sharing Card Details Over Email or Messaging Apps

It’s tempting to send payment details quickly over email or a messaging app, especially when dealing with someone you know. However, these channels are not designed for securely transmitting sensitive information. Emails and messages can be intercepted, and even trusted platforms aren’t immune to breaches. Legitimate businesses or individuals should never request your card details this way. Instead, insist on using secure payment gateways or apps specifically built to handle financial transactions safely.

Using Weak or Repeating Passwords for Online Accounts

The digital world runs on passwords, and weak or reused credentials are an open invitation for hackers. When you recycle passwords across accounts, a breach in one place can lead to a cascade of compromised accounts. So , create unique, complex passwords for each platform and consider using a password manager to keep them organized. It also helps to enable multi-factor authentication (MFA) whenever possible. MFA will ask you to verify any logins to your online accounts, usually via text or email. This makes it significantly harder for unauthorized users to access your accounts, even if they do somehow manage to steal your login details.

Overlooking Return and Refund Policies

Imagine eagerly waiting for an online order, only to find it damaged or completely different from what you expected. Without a clear understanding of the retailer’s return and refund policies, you could end up stuck with an unsatisfactory purchase. Take a few moments to review these policies before checking out. Pay extra attention to time limits for returns, conditions for refunds, and whether return shipping costs are covered. This small step can save you frustration and help you resolve any issues that arise faster. 

Online shopping with a credit card is both convenient and secure, but only if you take the right precautions. Avoid these common mistakes and your shopping experiences will be both smoother and more secure. In the end, staying vigilant and prioritizing safety ensures that more convenient transactions don’t come at the expense of peace of mind.

PB

PB is the visionary administrator behind PinoyBisnes.com, a trusted online resource for entrepreneurs, small business owners, and aspiring professionals in the Philippines. With years of experience in digital marketing, business development, and content strategy, PB is dedicated to providing practical, insightful, and up-to-date information that helps Filipinos navigate the ever-evolving business landscape.Under PB’s leadership, PinoyBisnes.com has become a go-to platform for business ideas, side hustles, marketing strategies, and career growth, empowering Filipinos to achieve financial independence and success in their chosen ventures.

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