We've been stuck in our homes for almost five months already and let's admit that during this time, many Filipinos have been doing their shopping online.
With a lot of things going on due to the coronavirus disease (COVID-19), there's a fear that once we go outside, we might be exposed to the virus. This has forced us to make our purchases online with several cashless payments at our disposal, including the use of our credit cards.
The question that immediately pops out is—how do we safely use our credit card? Below are some extra precautions you need to consider before pushing through with your purchase.
1. Incognito mode. If you're going to do your online purchase, make sure you are using your own trusted device—whether it's a phone, a desktop, or a tablet. If you cannot, which is really not preferable, but you don't have another choice, use the incognito mode. We don't mean a secret transaction, but we need to secure your personal information and credit card details.
2. Make sure that the online shop's website is secured and credible. Ask yourself these questions: Is this a trusted shop? Are there any past online-payment-related issues with this shop? It's okay to do some research, considering it is your hard-earned money we are talking about.
3. Check the product reviews and such. We want to ensure that your money will be put in a worthy purchase. Take a look at the product reviews and see if there's an issue. Do they allow refunds?Ask this because we all know that refunding your money will be quite a hassle.
4. Look if it asks for OTP. Once you decided to do the online purchase, and as you proceed with the transaction, the site will ask you for an OTP or one-time password, which will be sent through your email or phone number. OTPs are one of the safe measures to see keep your online purchases safe and secure.
5. Always keep a copy of your online purchase confirmation and receipt. When you try to purchase anything, always ask for confirmation and receipts. It will serve as your proof of purchase. This is very important. So, when something comes up or an issue props up, you have the proof.
6. Don't share your personal details.
Never ever give your personal, credit card, and purchase information. Scammers nowadays pretend to be someone from the bank, or from an online shop. And that's another story. However, always check if they are legit by analyzing their questions and the phone number they use. End the call immediately if someone asks your personal details. Call your bank and ask if they are the ones calling you.
