Prevent fraud when using your credit card online

Prevent fraud when using your credit card online

1 July 2008

Using your credit card online does leave you open to fraud. It's a sad fact, but it does happen frequently. But if you take precautions, you'll greatly reduce the chances of being deceived while using your credit card online.

The most common form of scams used on a credit card online is phishing. Phishing is when a user receives an email claiming to be from their bank with a link to their website. The user is taken to an official looking website and the user is asked for credit card details. Once the scammer has obtained your credit card online details, they have access to your accounts and possibly your identity.

Another online scam is emails that come with Trojans. A Trojan may record the keystrokes you make on your computer. With this information, the scammer can obtain your PIN.

Here are some tips for preventing fraud when using your credit card online:

• Banks won't send you emails asking for your account details - if you receive an email like this, report it to your bank and do not click on any attachments or links in the email.
• Check your credit card online regularly and look for any discrepancies on the statement.
• Regularly change you PIN and passwords.
• Use a good virus and spyware security program and update it regularly.

By being vigilant when using your credit card online, you'll be reducing the risk of being scammed.

Take a look at our Credit Card Fraud Prevention page for more information and take a look at our credit card comparison page to see if you're getting the best deal with your onlie credit card.

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