In an increasingly digitalized world where virtual payment solutions allow businesses to complete transactions and consumers to pay for more and more products and services online, the issue of how to make secure online payments is on everybody's mind. However, there are a few online payment security tips to keep in mind.
- Don't make online transactions over public computers or public Wi-Fi as they are more vulnerable to cyber attacks.
- Keep your software and virus protection up-to-date, and use strong passwords for your online accounts.
- Don't save your credit card details on e-commerce sites as that increases the risk of your data being stolen.
- Use only legitimate, verified e-commerce websites, which often have higher levels of protection in place for online transactions.
What are the safest methods for online payments?
- Credit cards
Credit cards can be the safest way to pay online. They are regulated by payment card industry (PCI) compliance rules, are usually backed by strong financial institutions, and they use online payment protection features like encryption and fraud monitoring to secure your data.
- Debit cards
Debit card purchases are another secure online payment option for consumers, since debit card use from an unfamiliar IP address can trigger identity verification measures. If you don't recognize the website that billed you for a product or a service, you can have your card frozen and protect your bank account.
- Prepaid cards
Using a prepaid card is a good way of making secure payments online, because it is not connected to your bank account. If you get targeted by cyber fraud or if your prepaid card gets lost or stolen, you will only lose the money you stored on the card.
- Gift cards
Gift cards are a type of prepaid card, so the same rule applies. Some gift cards can be registered online, which means that if your card gets lost or stolen, you can track it and have the remaining balance on it frozen. In this sense, some gift cards are safer than cash.
- Payment apps
Payment apps such as Enel X Pay are a secure online payment option that replaces cash and physical cards, which can be lost or stolen. Payment apps can be linked to online bank accounts and are a way to transfer money easily. Their security features can include multi-factor authentication, notifications and facial or fingerprint recognition.
