This post will show you things to look out for when making payments online…
Nowadays, services and products are abundant and available on the web, and many internet users enjoy them on a daily basis.
To take advantage of everything the WWW has to offer safely, it is vital to pay attention to the needed cybersecurity measures to keep your data safe – especially when transmitting sensitive information such as personal details and bank credentials online.
Before your next purchase online, make sure to look out for these things.
Table of Contents
Are Your Computer And Network Secure?
Cybersecurity starts with your own hardware and network. Is your computer secured with a trusted and updated antivirus program? This should be your first step to using the internet safely.
Antivirus and anti-malware programs detect and remove many types of malware, such as Trojan horses and spyware, and protect you from emerging cyber threats that might try to steal your data.
If your hardware is secure, you should also ensure your internet connection is safe. It is best to be connected to a private network for which you know the password when you’re planning on making a payment online.
You shouldn’t do any online transactions while you’re connected to a public Wi-Fi network, as those unprotected networks are especially vulnerable to hackers.
If, however, you want to use a public hotspot, using a trusted VPN service with good reviews from experts is highly recommended to hide your identity and encrypt your traffic.
CHECK OUT: What To Do If You've Been Scammed Online: A Comprehensive Guide
Are You On A Secure Website?
Are your hardware and connection secured? Then, it’s time to pay attention to the details on the website you would like to make a purchase.
If it’s a website that handles financial transactions, it should be suitably secured. Check the URL to see if it’s using a secure, encrypted connection. Does it have an “https://” tag with that extra “s”? If so, the website has an SSL certificate, which stands for Secure Sockets Layer and means your connection is secure and encrypted.
If, however, that extra “s” representing this security certificate is missing, it is not advisable to make any form of transaction on that site. While you’re checking the URL, make sure to read it thoroughly.
If you find any spelling mistakes in the URL and switched letters, that could be a sign of a fake website. Some fake shops try to imitate known platforms, so paying attention to details can be essential to make sure you’re on a safe website.
The website’s contact information, security policies, and potentially any quality labels, certificates, and/or awards are also great indicators of whether it can be trusted. Paying attention to details before making payments online is immensely important to make sure your data is safe.
READ ALSO: Most Secure Online Payment Services
Are Safe Payment Options Available?
If you’ve taken the security measures mentioned above and the website seems legitimate, have a look at the available payment options. The availability and variety of payment methods offered can be a big indicator of whether it is safe to make a purchase or not.
Trustworthy websites will offer a selection of payment options, including digital payment methods that offer an added layer of security. PayPal has established itself as one of the most popular payment options when shopping for clothes and other products online.
As you don’t have to share your payment credentials with the website directly and through added features such as buyer protection, this type of payment is especially secure. Other providers have made a name for themselves in different industries.
For instance, the payment service Neteller has evolved as one of the most popular options for online gaming. Platforms offering real money slots online, which have received positive reviews from experts, let users make deposits to place wagers on different casino games using a variety of payment options.
Neteller is one of the main ones that lets players deposit and withdraw money online safely. For any online transaction, digital payment options such as these are a safe choice.
The internet boasts near-endless options of things to do, enjoy, and buy. When scouring the entirety of the WWW and finding the best products and services, keep your cybersecurity in mind and take the necessary precautions to keep your data safe.
If you watch out for these things before making payments online or any transaction online, you have taken a big step toward enjoying everything the web has to offer with peace of mind.
Things To Look Out For When Making Payments Online: FAQs
Making payments online is convenient, but it's important to be cautious to protect yourself from fraud. Here are answers to some frequently asked questions to help you shop online securely:
Is it safe to use my credit card for online purchases?
Credit cards generally offer more protection than debit cards for online transactions. Most credit card companies have fraud protection measures in place, and you're not typically liable for unauthorized charges if you report them promptly.
What are some red flags to watch out for on a website?
- Poor website design: Typos, grammatical errors, or unprofessional design can indicate a fake website.
- Unrealistic deals: If a deal seems too good to be true, it probably is. Beware of extremely discounted products.
- No contact information: A legitimate business should have a physical address, phone number, and email address listed on their website.
- Insecure connection: The website's address bar should display “https://” and a padlock symbol. This indicates a secure connection that encrypts your data.
How can I protect myself from phishing scams?
Phishing scams involve emails or texts tricking you into revealing personal information or clicking on malicious links. Be wary of any unsolicited messages urging you to click on links or download attachments. Never enter your financial information on a website you don't trust.
What are some safe practices for online shopping?
- Shop from reputable websites: Look for established online stores with a good reputation. Read customer reviews before making a purchase.
- Use strong passwords and enable two-factor authentication: This adds an extra layer of security to your accounts.
- Beware of public Wi-Fi: Avoid making online purchases or accessing financial accounts on public Wi-Fi networks, as they can be less secure.
- Review your bank statements regularly: Monitor your bank statements for any suspicious activity and report unauthorized charges immediately.
What should I do if I suspect fraud after making an online payment?
- Contact the merchant: If you believe you've been scammed, contact the merchant where you made the purchase and report the issue.
- Contact your bank: Report any unauthorized charges to your bank or credit card company as soon as possible. They may be able to reverse the charges and help you recover your funds.
- Report the scam: You can also report the scam to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) to help prevent others from falling victim.
A Final Word…
By following these tips and being vigilant, you can minimize the risk of fraud and shop online with greater confidence.
Remember, if something seems suspicious, it probably is. Trust your gut and err on the side of caution when making online payments.
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About the Author:
Amaya Paucek is a professional with an MBA and practical experience in SEO and digital marketing. She is based in Philippines and specializes in helping businesses achieve their goals using her digital marketing skills. She is a keen observer of the ever-evolving digital landscape and looks forward to making a mark in the digital space.
