by The Computing Australia Group | 1. Avoid Public Wi-Fi
Ensure you use only secure networks for your online transactions. Avoid public Wi-Fi since scammers use these networks to infiltrate user’s accounts. If you cannot avoid them, use a VPN.2. Shop from Sites that have SSL Certificates
It’s best to shop from sites that have SSL certificates. Even though it doesn’t mean the site is fully safe, ensuring the website has an address starting with HTTPS can be considered your first step to secure online transactions.3. Avoid Saving your Credit Card Number
It can be a little troublesome to type your credit card number each time you purchase from an online site, but it’s worth the effort than losing your data to hackers. They are always looking for vulnerabilities to exploit. Saving your credit card details on online shopping sites are like helping them find one.4. Beware of Phishing Scams
Phishing scams are now one of the common cybercrimes. The scammers send emails pretending to be from a genuine online shopping site asking for credit card details to resolve your purchase problem. Once they receive the data, they steal your money. So, never reply to such emails because no genuine shops will ask for your credentials through email. It’s best to contact them to ensure the mail is authentic before taking further actions. To know more about phishing, read our blog on types of email phishing and how to recognise them.5. Be Extra Careful while Travelling
Stay cautious while using credit cards when you are travelling. Make sure you only use your credit card at trusted shops and bank ATMs. Inform the bank about your travel so they can inform you in case of any suspicious transactions.6. Use only Strong and Unique Passwords
We have already shared in many previous articles the importance of strong passwords. It’s the same when it comes to your online banking profile. Create a strong and unique password for each of your accounts. While creating the password, ensure it is long enough and contains symbols, numbers and upper and lower case. Also, ensure the password is not related to any of your personal information. Use a password manager to store the passwords instead of writing them down somewhere.
7. Try using one Credit for your Purchases
Allot one credit card for all your purchasing. This way, you can prevent your other cards from being targeted by hackers. It will be easy for you to keep track of the transactions and quickly notice any suspicious activities. Set up text messages or other means of alerts for transactions on your credit card.
8. Use a Payment System
Add an extra safety layer using mobile payment or online payment systems like PayPal or Apple Pay for making payments. This way, you can keep your credit card details safe from online shops. It reduces the risk of hackers obtaining your credentials if they ever hack the shop website.
9. Only Purchase from Trusted Sites
It’s always wise to shop from trusted and reputed sites. If you are using a new shopping site, ensure it’s safe before using the site for purchasing. Furthermore, try not to log in to sites that store your credit card information; you can use those that allow you to make purchases as a guest.
10. Install Antivirus Software
Protect your devices using security software. Both mobile devices and desktops need antivirus since we have shifted from desktop to mobile shopping.
11. Updates are Essential
Regularly update your operating system and other software. Updates help to patch the loopholes in your system, protecting you from viruses and other dangers.
Read our blog on why software updates and patches are essential to understand the importance of updates better.
These are the tips you can follow to protect your credits card information while using it online. With cybercrimes continually evolving, it’s a must to be on alert while you are online. Still have queries about credit card safety and cybersecurity? Contact our cybersecurity specialists or email at cybersecurity@computingaustralia.group. Our team is 24/7 ready to help you with any cybersecurity issues.
Jargon Buster
VPN – Virtual Private Network – An encrypted connection across a public network that provides online anonymity.
Https – Hypertext Transfer Protocol Secure – The secure version of HTTP, used for secure and encrypted communication on the internet.
SSL – Secure Sockets Layer – a data file that enables encrypted communication between a web browser and a web server.
Phishing – a fraudulent attempt where the attacker impersonates as a trustworthy entity to obtain sensitive information via digital communication.
Password manager – A program that allows users to store, generate, and manage passwords for online services.
