Online Credit Card Management: Is it safe?
In today's world, you can manage almost every aspect of
your credit cards online. While it is convenient to shop
and pay bills over the Internet, you may be concerned about
the security risks involved. The good news is that you can
reduce your risks by taking preventative action. Follow
these tips to make sure your online credit card management
is safe.
Applying Online
Many websites allow you to apply online for a credit card.
If you're concerned about sending personal information into
cyberspace, chances are you need not worry. In most cases,
online applications are just as safe, if not safer, than
sending forms through the regular mail system. When you
drop an application in the mailbox, your personal
information is exposed to numerous potential scammers. The
process may take four to six weeks to complete, thereby
creating more possibilities for others to see your data. If
you send an application through an online connection,
however, it will arrive in less than a second to the
secured source. When applying online, first check that the
site is secure and legitimate; then fill out the
application.
Shopping Online
Before purchasing an item online, take a few measures to
check for security. First, make sure that the company is
legitimate. If you are in doubt, you can check with the
Better Business Bureau. Next, look for security features on
the site. If the payment page has the letter "s" after its
"http" code (https:), it is protected with SSL, or Secure
Sockets Layer. This applies encryption between your
computer system and the company's Internet server. When
your data is transmitted over the Internet, it is
encrypted, or scrambled, when it is sent. It is then
unscrambled when it reaches its destination. Another safety
feature to look for is a small padlock on the screen.
Finally, make sure you feel comfortable providing your
information. If something on the site concerns you, check
into it before paying with your credit card.
Online Statements and Billing
Almost all credit card companies allow you to sign up for
online access to your credit card account. When you do,
make sure that the site has secure features. Be careful not
to use a login name or password that contains obvious
personal information, such as your name or date of birth.
Check your card activity and online statements regularly
for signs of transactions that you did not authorize.
Phishing
By far, phishing is one of the most dangerous fraudulent
activities online. In phishing, scammers send e-mails that
appear to be from legitimate companies. They often ask you
to respond with personal information to confirm an account
or win a prize. Be sure to check your e-mail carefully. A
credit card company will never ask you to send personal
information, such as your social security number, to them
via e-mail. If you receive a questionable e-mail, do not
respond to it or open any attachments it contains. Rather,
report it to the credit card company or a credit bureau for
inspection.
Like other security issues, online credit card management
can be safe if proper measures are taken. Check sites for
security features, look into online companies before making
purchases, and avoid responding to questionable e-mails. By
following these steps, you can enjoy the ease of online
credit card management without the headache of credit card
fraud.
