Online shopping has become a normal part of our lives, using your credit card or debit card can make your online shopping easier and convenient. But, how do you use credit cards online safely?
If you’re one of many Filipinos who shop online every week, using credit cards can make shopping even more convenient. Follow these tips to maximize your security while using your debit or credit card for online shopping.
Is using a debit card online safe? What about a credit card?
Both debit cards and credit cards are designed to allow users to make purchases online and offline without using cash. While they offer the convenience, using your card online poses security risks. This begs the question: is it safe to shop online using debit or credit cards?
Of course! Banks enforce multiple layers of security to protect users from fraud and hacking whenever they use their cards. These are put in place so users can maximize credit cards and debit cards for shopping, bill payments, and any other transactions without worrying about security.
Using your debit or credit card for online shopping can only be as secure as you allow it to be. Users must be proactive in avoiding phishing and using security features to keep their cards secure.
Credit card tips for online shopping
Here are practical tips on how to use credit cards online without compromising security:
Use websites you trust
Given the prevalence of online shopping today, so many online shopping platforms and e-commerce stores have emerged. You can even shop on social media platforms nowadays. However, not every website or store you see can be trusted.
Be vigilant when shopping. Avoid clicking links you find on the internet or social media, even if it looks familiar to you. Some phishing websites use fake URLs for mining and stealing credit or debit card information.
To avoid phishing, type the whole address on the address bar or search for the website through a search engine instead. Also be sure to process payments or pay bills using your credit card only on legitimate payment processing sites.
Avoid using public computers and networks
Public computers and networks are less secure than your mobile data or personal Wi-Fi.
Whenever you use these to transact online, hackers can intercept the connection and steal your information as it travels from one server to another. Hackers can also install spyware into the public computer that records keystrokes, including your login information and credit card number.
So, while you may be tempted to occasionally shop online in public places, it’s safest to shop using your mobile data or your personal Wi-Fi. Or better yet, wait until you’re home to complete your transactions.
Make sure your credit cards are secure
One of the many credit card benefits is the additional security that protects you from various risks. There are also protections like multi-factor authentication, and insurance.
You don’t need to worry about using your Metrobank Mastercard credit cards online. You can get automatic worldwide insurance for online item purchases with E-Commerce Protection. Get coverage for losses, such as incomplete or wrong item delivered; defect or damage in delivery; and non-delivery of online goods purchase. To file a claim, simply go to https://ph.mycardbenefits.com.
Enable multi-factor authentication
Another common security feature you must know about how to use credit cards online safely is multi-factor or two-factor authentication. Apart from the standard username and password, banks also require a one-time passcode, which users must use to authorize transactions.
Make sure to enable this security feature for added protection whenever you do online transactions. The multi-factor authentication may also alert you of fraudulent activities, so you can prevent and report them immediately.
Regularly change pins and passwords
PINS and passwords are security features that you must have. Users use PIN or password to authorize transactions online and offline. So, it can be a target for hackers or fraudsters.
Update your PIN and password regularly, or every few months to protect yourself from hackers and fraudsters.
Protect your PINs and passwords whenever you use them.Make sure no one is looking over your shoulder when you input them in ATM machine or point-of-sale device.
Keep your devices updated
Software updates on your phone help protect your phone from malware and various cyberthreats, and by extension, safeguard your banking information.
In addition to your phone’s software, also update your banking apps to benefit from the latest security features.
Review your statements regularly
Whether you use a debit card or credit card, make it a habit to review online transactions regularly, even if you did not make a purchase. This is to make sure that everything is in place.
You should also check SMS and email transaction alerts sent by the bank to help you monitor your card activity. Reviewing transactions regularly makes it possible for you to spot discrepancies sooner.
Report even the smallest discrepancies, even if it did not push through as this could be a sign of a bigger fraud attempt later on.
Help us #Fightfraud
Metrobank’s debit cards and credit cards in the Philippines are designed to make your transactions more convenient and secure. However, banks alone cannot fight fraud. We need your participation to mitigate various crimes.
Take advantage of the security features we’ve put in place and follow our tips on how to use debit cards for online transactions safely so you can continue shopping.
Metrobank takes fraud seriously. You can be part of the fight. Browse through our articles and learn more about how we can work together to fight fraud.
