Secure the information in your digital world

Don’t become the victim of digital predators; keep your credit card data safe.

11:07 29 May 2014

In a world that promotes and even sometimes requires us to complete transactions digitally, it’s imperative that we know how to keep our information and identities secure. There are ways to ensure that our credit card information remains secure from identity thieves. Here are a few tips to help you keep your private information secure: 

 

• Online shopping—when completing any credit or debit card transactions online, make sure that your browser displays a symbol that marks it as secure, like a closed lock. Each browser may have its own symbol. You can also check the web address which should show https:// instead of just http://. 

 

• Credit card—always sign the back of any credit or debit cards. If you prefer someone to check your picture identification card, you can also write “see I.D.” on the back of the card. Anyone checking the card should ask for your identification as an added layer of security. 

 

• Review—review statements on a monthly basis, but if you also have free internet access to monitor your accounts feel free to check those throughout the month. Report any unidentified purchases to your bank immediately. 

 

• Paperwork—if you receive statements or have papers showing your account numbers and other private information shred it before throwing it out. Cross-cutting shredders are more secure than traditional shredders. 

 

• Public wi-fi—if you shop online, try to avoid public wi-fi. With public wi-fi anyone can access it, and may be able to intercept the information being transmitted across the connection. 

 

• Saved information—when asked if you want to save your data such as your address, credit card, telephone, and passwords try to decline the offer. Your information is more secure if you enter it each time you make a purchase, so it is worth the extra few minutes it takes.