Online Credit Card Transactions
There are a number of facts you should be made aware of before you use your credit card online. If you run an internet business you must be able to handle online credit card transactions. Most people won’t use their credit card if the site isn’t secure and many small businesses find this a problem. If your web site accepts credit card payments it’s important that it’s secure so potential customers will feel comfortable ordering from you.
Websites were secure credit card transactions can take place have a small logo on the bottom right of the screen called [verisign]. There are no guarantees given but does give you a sense of relief when you use personal information online. That customer feel good factor should not be dismissed because if they don’t have it they won’t buy from you.
If you shop online, don’t forget this. Although many websites accept credit card payments, some are safer to use than others. The verisign logo helps and it is a good place to start but it is not the only thing you should look for. A secure web site has the address https:// and not the usual http:// when you look at the address bar in your browser.
When looking at sites that accept credit cards, it is always wise to be wary as there are a number that have been set up purely to gather credit card information from the users. These are often referred to as phishing sites, you may be surprised at the number of people who fall for this. It usually begins with an email telling you that your information must be updated, and then offers you a link. So when you follow the link it takes the user to what appears to be an official looking site but is a complete fake. The criminals behind this scam will have immediate access to your account as soon as your details are entered.
The easiest way around this type of scam is to enter the website address in manually. By entering the internet address in yourself, manually, in a new browser, you will avoid the dangerous link. As a rule of thumb, just remember that financial institutions almost never ask for private information via an email. Initial contact is normally by phone if there is a problem. It’s easy to check the website for a telephone number if you’re not sure. Any site that is legitimate, and can accept credit cards online will understand your hesitation and will be happy to answer any questions you may have for them.
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