Odds are you’re using a credit card when shopping online — unless you’ve figured out how to teleport cash (if so, tell us!). Credit cards provide a convenient, secure payment option and the process for making online purchases is typically the same across most websites.
This guide outlines the payment process step-by-step, security features and other factors that come up when you want to use a credit card for online purchases.
Credit card companies have a range of security measures to protect your account from fraud when you shop online.
Many credit card companies provide 24-hour fraud-monitoring services that’ll contact you if there’s suspicious account activity.
If a fraud-monitoring service can’t verify a transaction that’s been made on your account, it will be able to temporarily block your account and investigate further to ensure your credit card is protected against unauthorized transactions.
You may have already been pre-enrolled in Verified by Visa, Mastercard SecureCode and American Express Safekey. You need to enter a one-time SMS or email code each time you use your credit card to shop online.
Note that an online merchant must have registered with the program for the service to work.
American Express, Mastercard and Visa provide zero liability guarantees to cover you for fraudulent credit card use in-store, over the phone and online. Note that these liability guarantees do not cover cash advance fraud.
If you’re the victim of credit card fraud, contact your credit card provider immediately to dispute the transaction.
It depends. You don’t have to re-enter your credit card information when using PayPal, as your information is securely stored in an online vault when making PayPal payments. However, your customer service in the event of a breach may prove less robust than with credit card providers.
Finder data suggests that men aged 18-24 are most likely to be researching this topic.
| Response | Male (%) | Female (%) |
|---|---|---|
| 65+ | 7.06% | 7.06% |
| 55-64 | 7.41% | 6.12% |
| 45-54 | 8.01% | 6.46% |
| 35-44 | 9.47% | 6.46% |
| 25-34 | 11.46% | 7.41% |
| 18-24 | 14.64% | 8.44% |
Consider these factors when shopping online to make your payment experience even safer.
If you have reason to believe your card is compromised, you’ll want to take a few important steps to protect your account:
Thankfully, credit card providers offer a zero liability policy, so you won’t be on the hook for unauthorized charges as long as you report them properly. Check out our credit card security guide for more information on how providers protect consumers. The most common items bought while drunk: food and shoes, clothes or accessories.
One of the major danges with online shopping is doing so while you’ve had a couple, which is something that about one in six (17%) of Americans admit to doing and spending an average of $309 on those purchases.
Making payments with a credit card has become an incredibly common and safe method of making purchases. However, these guidelines can provide you with an extra layer of safety in protecting your information.
The best credit cards for young adults are cards with low or no credit score requirements, low or no interest and rewards to go around.
Plus, how many credit cards should you have?
Credit cards can do more harm than good if you’re not careful.
The 6 best cards that charge zero interest include Step Black Card, Chime Credit Builder, Varo Believe, Cleo Credit Builder and more.
Secured cards like the Cleo Credit Builder can have limits as high as $25,000, but you’ll need a deposit to match.
If you’re looking for a credit card but have a bad credit rating, use this guide to compare suitable credit cards and regain control over your finances.
Earn a generous signup bonus and massive cashback rates on a variety of categories.
Earn a solid signup bonus and generous cashback rates on a variety of categories.
Credit cards come with both benefits and risks, so use our list of pros and cons to weigh up your options.
Does my drivers license need to do with applying of a credit card?
Hi King,
Thanks for your comment and I hope you are well.
Credit card providers would need a form of identification when you apply. This shows your residence as most would require you to be an Australian resident.
As a friendly reminder, check the eligibility requirements of the card before proceeding with your application. Also, read about its features and benefits and see how it fits your financial needs. Additionally, it’s helpful to review the PDS and Terms & Conditions of the card before fully committing to the card. You may also reach out to the bank if you have any clarifications.
Hope this helps and feel free to reach out to us again for further assistance.
Best,
Nikki