eCommerce - What security measures shall I look out for when buying online?
Answer
- Look for security policy available on the website;
- Look out for websites that use a technology called Secure Sockets Layer (SSL) to protect any personal data/information provided over the Internet during online transactions. These websites may display a logo from a certification company as proof of use of SSL, or else just use the words SSL or a pop up box that says you are entering a secure area;
- Check the web address of the page where you are being asked for your credit card details. If the page starts with ‘https://www’ as opposed to the ordinary ‘http://www’, then this is indicative that it is a secure site. Furthermore, if the address bar turns green, this may also indicate that the site has an additional level of security.
- Search for an icon of an ‘unbroken key’ or closed ‘padlock’ at the bottom of the browser window.
- Choose a secure and easy-to-use payment method that protects your financial information when shopping online:
- Credit card payments are more secure than paying by cheque or money order. This method will not only help prevent your personal information from ending up in the hands of potential perpetrators, but you will be able to request reversal of your credit card transaction (chargeback) with your bank in cases of:The item is not delivered within thirty (30) days from the date of the transaction;
- The item is not delivered within thirty (30) days from the date of the transaction:
- The item is not what you purchased;
- Double charging has occurred; or
- A processing error has taken place.
- Online payment services handle the transfer of money between you and the seller when buying online. Online businesses offering this service will allow you to set up a personal account that can be used to purchase from various online sellers around the world, without the need to retype your credit card information for each transaction. You will only need to provide your account information once; and then this is stored securely by the online payment service provider.