BE PROTECTED - Fraud prevention
The internet
Shopping
Shopping over the internet has become increasingly popular. Most internet sites are safe, but with the growth of online shopping, there has been an increase in the incidence of online credit card fraud. However you can take some simple steps to reduce the chance of becoming a victim of online credit card fraud.
- Deal only with reputable merchants. Make sure the website you access also has the physical address for the merchant and a phone number that you can contact if problems occur.
- Shop at websites offering secure shopping. Secure websites will display an unbroken key or padlock at the bottom of your screen.
- Be sure to deal with companies that post their privacy policy on their website. Some websites will ask for personal information, but the only details a merchant needs to process a transaction is the name on your credit card, the card number, the expiry date, the amount of the purchase and the security code (known as the CVV or CVC codes) that appears on the reverse side of the card.
- Don’t send credit card or account details by email – the information won’t be secure. If you can’t send the details by secure methods, its best to phone your details.
- You should be given an opportunity to confirm or reject an online order before you pay for it. Use this opportunity to make sure there are no errors.
- Print your order before you send it, noting any reference numbers. You may need these if there is a problem.
- When internet shopping, always check the cost. Be aware of extra costs like GST, delivery fees and packaging or postage. Take note of who pays for the cost of postage if the goods need to be returned. When shopping at an overseas based site, consider freight and customs costs.
- Check if your credit card provides a purchase guarantee. In some cases, if an item was purchased on your credit card and was not delivered, damaged or stolen you may be able to recover the costs.
Online banking
Doing your banking online is a safe option if you take the necessary precautions.
- NEVER disclose personal information such as your account or credit card number, or PIN in response to an email.
- Change your PIN on a regular basis, and NEVER disclose it to anyone, not even a representative of your bank.
- Ensure that you always have the latest version of security protection software on your computer, such as personal firewall and anti-virus software. Importantly, be sure to check regularly for updates to keep your protection reliable.
- Always sign onto internet banking from your browser by typing the web address into the address bar.
- Avoid using internet banking at public access computers such as internet cafes and airport lounges. If unavoidable, be sure to change your password as soon as possible.
- Never leave your computer unattended when signing onto internet banking.
- Always sign off properly from internet banking by selecting ‘Sign/Log Off’ – don’t just close your browser.
Remember, if you believe your account has been compromised in any way, contact your bank immediately.
