The content is accurate at the time of publication and is subject to change.

As online fraud is on the rise, many consumers hold back from using their credit cards for online shopping and other transactions over the Internet. However, in most situations, the Internet is actually a more secure environment than a retail establishment where a fraudster can use a variety of ways to read off your credit card information at a distance. If you still hesitate about whether using a credit card online is secure, there are some tips for you to ensure it is.

Let`s start with credit card applications online. Each time you apply for credit card online, the issuer requires some of your personal information to identify your personality and to determine your eligibility for the card requested. If you want to make sure that your identifying information is safe while being transmitted, check if the website of the issuer contains "https" in its URL instead of "http" because it proves the use of a secure server. Applying for a credit card online is actually more secure than sending the application through the mail when it is exposed to the third parties before it reaches the card company.

Concerned about the security of your credit card online transactions? Don`t be. There are several ways to ensure you are safe. First, most credit cards offer easy access to your online account, statement and payment history. The ability to access your credit card account allows you to see transactions as soon as they happen and spot any unauthorized transactions occurring. For more protection, you can request that the company sends you e-mails or phone text messages each time a purchase made with your card meets certain criteria, for example, it is over a dollar amount specified by you.

Then, when it comes to credit card shopping online, there are also certain ways to ensure your credit card security. Whenever you are shopping online, check if the website is a reputable one. For this, make sure its URL contains "https" indicating that it is protected with SSL (secure sockets layer). Second, read reports on the Better Business Bureau and other online sources to know other consumers` opinion about the security of the website and retailer`s honesty.

And finally, be aware of phishing. Phishing is a common way for consumers to fall victims of identity thieves that use special tricks to make you give up your personal data. How does phishing happen? You get an e-mail that appears to be from a legitimate company asking for your personal details to confirm your account information. Do never give any of your personal information in the e-mail or on the website that you were linked to from the e-mail. The website may look like your bank`s actual website but it is actually fake and run by fraudsters who will still your identity!

Disclaimer: This editorial content is not provided or commissioned by the credit card issuer(s). Opinions expressed here are the author's alone, not those of the credit card issuer(s), and have not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by the credit card issuer(s). Reasonable efforts are made to present accurate information, however all information is presented without warranty. Consult a card's issuing bank for the terms & conditions.
All rates and fees, and other terms and conditions of the products mentioned in this article/post are actual as of the last update date but are subject to change. See the current products' Terms & Conditions on the issuing banks' websites.