There are many benefits of online shopping, including the ability to save money while comparing a large number of products. Unfortunately, there is one major drawback: security.
Despite the security concerns, there are steps you can take to protect yourself. Here are some of the most common online credit card shopping mistakes that consumers make:
1. Choosing the wrong store. If you aren’t 100 percent confident that the store is 100 percent legit, it’s time to move on. With so many options, there is no point in taking a risk at a store that may have security issues.
2. Using public WiFi. This doesn’t sound like a big deal, but it actually puts you in a more vulnerable position.
With public WiFi hotspots, it’s possible for somebody nearby to swoop in and steal your credit card information. This is more common than many consumers believe, so make sure you avoid this mistake.
3. Storing your credit card information. Many stores want to make your shopping experience as easy as possible, which is why they will allow you to store your information for future use.
This sounds like a great idea, especially if you shop via the store on a regular basis. The problem with this is that it increases the likelihood of your credit card information being compromised.
Just because there are security concerns associated with online shopping doesn’t mean you should avoid this altogether. What it does mean is this: you should be aware of the risks and then do whatever it takes to keep your credit card information safe.
Have you run into security concerns in the past? What strategies are you using to avoid trouble in the future? Share your thoughts in the comment section below.