Secure Your Credit Card Behavior

The world is becoming more and more digital, and a lot of us are living cashless lives and depending solely on credit cards for daily purchases. If you fall into this category or at least use your credit cards regularly, here are a few tips to make sure your credit card behavior is safe.

What Is Credit Card Behavior?

Credit card behavior is how you act when you purchase items online or in-person with a credit card. Your behavior can make it difficult or easy for cybercriminals to steal your information. If you follow some simple guidelines, you can make sure your credit card behavior is safe and that you keep your purchases secure.

Online Purchases

Always make sure you go to SSL secured websites. You’ll know that they’re secured because they’ll begin with “https” and have a little lock in your browser’s search bar. Most websites nowadays are required to be secure.

Fundfirstcapital.com suggests having security software on your computer so that when you use your credit card online, your computer is secure. Some experts recommend using a VPN for privacy purposes. It’s also wise to make sure your internet service provider is secure. It’s not wise to use a WiFi hotspot at a restaurant, for instance, to make online purchases. You can never be sure if you’re making purchases over a secure connection.

Be careful of phishing and scam emails. Cybercriminals will send you emails from time to time asking for your credit card numbers. If it’s suspicious, delete it. They’ll do anything they can to get a hold of your information. The same holds true if someone calls you asking you to verify your information. If you’re in doubt, hang up and call back the company at the number you have on file. Never give out personal information if you aren’t sure who you’re giving it to.

In-person Behavior

At the ATM, you’ve got to be careful, because cybercriminals can set up ways to get your information as you put your card into the ATM. When you hand your card over to a waiter or waitress at a restaurant, they can easily take a picture of your credit card to get your information. When you’re putting in your PIN, people can look over your shoulder to get your information.

It’s always wise to be cautious and practice safety and security in any of these situations. You can use an RFID-blocking sleeve or wallet to keep cybercriminals from using special radio devices to steal your information. You can make sure no one is behind you when you put in your PIN.

Best Practices for Security

You’ll never be 100 percent capable of preventing all instances of theft. But you can look at your card statements daily. If you ever see any charges out of the ordinary, contact your credit card provider immediately. They are required by law to investigate the situation and issue a chargeback if you did not make the charge. They’ll also issue you a new card for safety.

Ultimately, credit card safety is about changing your behavior so that you won’t become a victim. If you are ever a victim, the law is on your side as the consumer. Just make sure you monitor your activities and stay in touch with your credit card provider if anything negative occurs.…