Data breaches are becoming more common, and you must know how to protect yourself. Because hackers are targeting the credit card number that holds your information, it is difficult to prevent them from obtaining it. Nonetheless, there are several steps you can take to mitigate the damage and protect yourself from credit card hacks and breaches.
Sensitive information is widely available when we use credit card numbers online, making us easy prey for identity theft and other online crimes. None of us wants our accounts compromised, identities stolen, or emails spammed, but because we are unsure of what to be worried about or not, we unknowingly put ourselves at risk.
Even if you still need to be hacked, many of the six steps outlined below can make your data more difficult to find and less usable if you are involved in a breach. They range from regular account monitoring to credit freezes.
Six Steps That can Make Your Data More Difficult to Find and Less Usable
- Avoid Using Public Wifi When Shopping
If you’ve been informed that you’re a victim of a data breach, notify the company right away and request a new credit card. You’re not going to get any pushback from the company, which is already embarrassing. But if you do, don’t give up.
Cybercriminals scour public Wi-Fi networks for information. Your private credit card information and other sensitive data, such as account passwords and banking credentials, are accessible when they latch onto the same Wi-Fi signal and intercept information as it is being transmitted.
- Don’t Save the Details of Your Credit Card Online
Don’t wait for your credit card statement to arrive before checking it and monitor your account online on a regular basis. Even if you get a new card, keep checking your credit card number every day for at least 30 days. If you discover a questionable charge, you should challenge it right away.
For a more personalised shopping experience on your preferred websites, you might be tempted to save your credit card information. However, doing so can increase your risk of identity theft. No matter how time-consuming the process is, it is safe to enter your credit card information each time you make a purchase.
- Set up a Fraud Alert
Placing a fraud alert on your credit profile with the credit bureaus is an alternative and less drastic action to freezing your credit. For a year, a fraud alert can prevent unauthorised access to your credit history; it can then be renewed. In contrast to a credit freeze, a fraud alert doesn’t completely lock down your credit reports, However, it does require extra steps to be taken by creditors and lenders to confirm your identity before approving new credit lines in your name.
You might also want to make use of extra digital security precautions like two-factor authentication, which sends a unique one-time code to a dependable device like a cell phone. Requiring physical possession of your device before allowing an unauthorised sign-in to your accounts, adds an additional layer of security.
Passwords are gradually being replaced by newer forms of authentication, such as Face ID and Touch ID on iPhones, as a legitimate way to give someone access to sensitive financial information.
- Keep Your Password and Pin Secure
For additional security to protect your transactions, use a PIN. Make sure your PIN is not too obvious or simple to figure out. A good way to reduce the risk of fraud on your credit card number is to change your PIN every six months.
Your passwords for online banking profiles should be complex and unique, just like PINs. Keep a lengthy password that combines numbers, symbols, uppercase and lowercase letters, and both. It’s a good idea to keep a memorable sentence or phrase as your password because it adds complexity. When creating a phrase or sentence password, always include numbers and symbols.
- If You Lose Your Credit Card, Immediately Notify Your Bank.
Contact your bank right away by using an ATM, visiting a branch, picking up the phone, or using online banking if you misplace or lose your credit card or discover an unauthorised transaction. Your card will be blocked by the bank, preventing fraudulent activity.
- Save Your Online Credit Card Receipts to a Printout or File
Be sure to print a copy of your receipt when using your credit card number online. The total can then be verified to ensure that it matches by comparing the amounts on your receipts and billing statement.
Summing Up
Identity theft is a scary concept, but don’t give up. Although you cannot eliminate the possibility of becoming a victim of identity theft, you can significantly reduce your chances of becoming a victim. All that is required is a little foresight and a willingness to take the necessary precautions. Credit card numbers are great for making online purchases. These tips can assist you in conducting APR credit card online transactions safely.
Read also: Tips for Maintaining a Healthy Credit Card Status
