Many people choose card payments online. The security of this type of transaction is a topic that should be of interest to every network user. It is worth knowing how to protect your finances when shopping online - the most important information is provided in our article.
Paying by card online - safe practices
Online payments are very convenient, so why not use them? However, you need to be careful on the Internet, because many fraudsters spread their net there. Even people who consider themselves familiar with new technologies and, therefore, with the methods of criminals who seek their savings fall into them.
It is worth remembering that safe card payments online require the use of several good practices:
First of all, you should always make sure that the website where you make the payment has an SSL security certificate. This can be recognized by the lock icon and the "https" prefix in the URL;
it is also worth using the 3D Secure service, which requires additional confirmation of the transaction with a one-time SMS code;
Additionally, it is a good idea to set payment limits for card transactions and regularly check the history of operations;
you must be careful when entering card details and do it away from other people;
When shopping online, do not use public Wi-Fi - it is better to conduct such transactions at home.
By applying these rules, you can significantly increase the security of card payments online.
What is the 3D Secure service and how does it work?
The previously mentioned 3D Secure service is an additional security for card payments online. It involves confirming the transaction in the banking application or with a one-time SMS code sent to the telephone number assigned to the card. Thanks to this, even if the card data falls into the wrong hands, the fraudster will not be able to use it without access to the owner's phone. This can help prevent unauthorized purchases or transfers of funds from your account. People who have not activated this service should do so as soon as possible.
To use the 3D Secure service, you must provide your card details when paying by card in the online store and then enter the code from the received SMS. It is worth remembering that this service is completely free and starts automatically when you try to pay in stores that support it. So it costs nothing and provides adequate protection.
How to recognize a safe online store?
However, enabling the previously mentioned service will not provide complete protection. The first step to safely paying by card online is to make sure that the store is trustworthy. It is worth paying attention to several issues that will help assess the seller's credibility:
first of all, you should check whether the store's website has an SSL security certificate, as evidenced by the padlock icon next to the URL address and the prefix "https" instead of "http";
the next element is the store regulations, which should include the seller's contact details, such as address, telephone number or tax identification number;
It is also worth looking for opinions about a given store on the Internet, especially on forums and social media. If there are a lot of negative comments about a seller online, this may be a warning sign.
What to remember when paying by card online?
In addition to choosing a trusted store, there are a few rules that are worth remembering when paying by card online. Do not use unsecured Wi-Fi networks, e.g. in cafes or shopping malls. Such networks expose users to sensitive data being intercepted by hackers. It's also a good idea to set payment limits for card transactions. Thanks to this, even if card data is stolen, potential losses will be limited. Additionally, it's a good idea to check your transaction history and statements regularly to be able to react quickly in the event of suspicious activity.
When entering card details on the store's website, you must also be careful and not do it in the presence of other people who could view sensitive information. It is also a good idea to remember or write down the telephone number for blocking the card in a safe place, so that you can do it quickly in the event of theft.
What are the alternatives to card payments?
Safe card payments online are not the only option for online store customers. Other methods are becoming more and more popular, such as BLIK, PayPal or pay-by-link transfers:
BLIK is a Polish mobile payment method that allows for quick and safe transactions using a 6-digit code generated in the banking application. BLIK payments do not require entering card details, only confirmation with a PIN code in the application;
PayPal, in turn, is an international payment system that allows you to transfer money using an e-mail address. PayPal users do not have to share their card details with stores because payments are made from a virtual account funded by the card or bank account;
pay-by-link transfers, on the other hand, involve automatic redirection of the customer from the store's system to his bank's website in order to log in and confirm the transfer. This is a convenient and safe method because card details are not shared with the store.
Paying by card online involves certain risks, but by following basic safety rules, you can significantly minimize the risk. It is also worth considering alternative payment methods, such as BLIK, PayPal or pay-by-link transfers, which often offer a higher level of security than a traditional card. Regardless of the option you choose, regularly monitoring your transactions and responding quickly to suspicious activity is key to protecting your finances when shopping online.