Online shopping is super convenient and time-saving, but with so many options, there’s a chance of running into dodgy online stores. Let’s go over some simple ways to keep your money and data safe while navigating the online shopping world.
Go for the Big Names
Start by picking well-known websites like Amazon, Aliexpress, eBay, or Shein. They’ve got strong security to protect your card details. Plus, even if you make a purchase from a shady seller via one of these platforms, they will help you get your money back.
Check Before You Click Buy
Before buying anything on a new find, do a bit of research to make sure it’s legit.
- Read Reviews on Trustpilot and Others: Check what others say on sites like Trustpilot and Google. Look at both good and bad reviews to get the full picture.
- Social Media Check: See if the store is active on social media. Legit ones talk to customers. If there’s no social media presence or it looks off, be cautious.
- Check the URL: Examine the website’s URL carefully. Scammers may use slight variations or misspellings of legit domain names to trick users.
- Look for the Lock and HTTPS: Check for a little lock icon and make sure the web address starts with ‘https://.’ That means your connection is secure.
- Find Contact Info: Real websites provide accurate and easily found contact information. If the website lacks an address, phone number, or email, it could be a red flag.
- Check for Spelling and Grammar: Scam websites often contain spelling and grammatical errors. Legit businesses invest in professional content, so poor language quality can be a sign of a fraudulent site.
- Be Careful with Email Links: Phishing emails often contain links to fake websites. Instead of clicking on the link directly, open a new browser window and manually enter the official website’s URL to make sure you’re on the genuine site.
- Use Good Security Software: Keep your antivirus and anti-malware software up-to-date. Many security programs can detect and warn you about potentially harmful websites.
Know the Rules: Delivery, Returns, and Refunds
Legit stores are clear about their rules. Make sure you understand the deal before hitting that buy button. If a website doesn’t have clear policies or hides them, that’s a red flag. Trustworthy places want you to know what’s what. Try reaching out to the store directly. If they dodge your questions or won’t share the details, it’s safer to shop elsewhere.
Watch Out for Unreal Deals
In the excitement of online shopping, it’s crucial to be wary of deals that seem too good to be true. For instance, extremely low prices could indicate fake or counterfeit goods. Some online stores also use massive discounts to draw us in. While discounts can be enticing, be cautious if they seem too steep. Fraudulent sites often use this tactic to lure unsuspecting shoppers. Stay alert, compare prices across different platforms, and trust your instincts. If a deal seems too good to be true, it might just be a trick to get your money without delivering what you expect.
Protect Your Money in the Digital Checkout
In the world of online shopping, keeping your payment details safe is key. Here’s how to navigate payment security like a pro:
- Use Trusted Payment Methods Only: Stick to well-known payment methods like debit and credit cards, PayPal, and similar platforms. Websites asking for direct wire transfers might be up to no good, so it’s best to avoid those.
- Use 3D Secure®: When making payments, consider using 3D Secure® for an added layer of security. This is a one-time passcode sent to your phone that you need to enter to authorise your transaction. To enable it, contact your bank or card provider. It’s a simple step that goes a long way in protecting your money.
- Go Virtual: Think about using virtual cards for your online shopping adventures. They have their own unique credentials like a card number, expiry date, and CVV code, and they are not linked to your main account. So, even if a hacker gets your virtual card details, they won’t have access to your actual card. Many virtual cards allow you to set spending limits, or you can set them yourself by replenishing your card with a specific amount of money. Plus, virtual cards are easily blocked and renewed, so you don’t have to worry about losing your money after buying something on an unfamiliar website – just block your card and get a new one.
- Regularly Check Your Statements: Keep an eye on your bank or card statements regularly. Small, sneaky charges can sometimes go unnoticed. By checking your statements, you can catch anything fishy before it becomes a big problem.
Shop with Confidence with CFPS
At CFPS, your safety and peace of mind during online shopping are our top priorities. Our vigilant system constantly monitors your transactions and identifies any unusual activity, ensuring that your hard-earned money and sensitive information stay out of harm’s way. Our free virtual card is powered by the robust 3D Secure® protection supported by the Mastercard® network. If you ever suspect foul play, you can instantly block your virtual card within the app. Plus, we provide you with free card renewals, up to three times a month, ensuring uninterrupted shopping security. Our user-friendly app allows you to track all your transactions in one place and get instant notifications for every purchase, empowering you to stay on top of your spending.
Online shopping is super handy, but keeping your money and info safe is crucial. Stick to well-known sites, do some research, and follow simple safety steps. Understand store rules, watch out for fake deals, and use secure payment methods. Stay informed, trust your instincts, and shop safely.
Posted on January 24, 2024
