If you follow a few simple rules for shopping on the Internet, your transactions should be as safe as buying at a store. However it's important to remember that no Internet transactions can be guaranteed to be secure.
Where to buy?
Look for reputable Internet merchants or stores. Anyone can set up a website, so if you're not sure ask them for information about their company, products and services, and about their returns and refund policy.
Is it safe?
Make sure that the website of any merchant you deal with is encrypted (you'll see a padlock at the bottom of your screen – this must be locked). This helps to ensure that the information you send over the Internet won't be intercepted.
Make sure YOU bought it
Always read your credit card statements carefully and check for any suspicious transactions. If you find any transactions that aren't yours, phone us on 0800 658 044, if you do this within 14 days of the date on your statement and transaction is found to not be yours, you usually won't be responsible for the payment. Remember, the name of the store on the statement may be different from the name under which the store trades (eg. John Smith & Sons trading as Acme Trading).
Keep it on file
Whenever you make an online purchase, print out a copy for your records. This will make it easier to check your purchases against your credit card statement.
Your secret password
When you're required to use a password to access a service, make sure it's not obvious (eg. Don't use your phone number, date of birth or children's names) and remember not to give your password to anyone.
