Virtual Credit Cards

• Because online credit card fraud does occur, credit card companies help reduce your risk of being victimized by offering virtual credit cards for online shopping. Once assigned a card number from your credit card issuer, pay for items online by entering this temporary number instead of your real credit card number. Virtual card numbers are good for one-time use only. Speak with your card company about their options for virtual card numbers.
  
  

Use Trusted Websites

• Buying from an unknown retailer places your credit card information at risk. Large, established companies have the necessary resources to support a reliable security system that ensures the protection of your personal information. Get to know a retailer's website before buying items online. Check for signs of a secure site and look for the Verisign seal.
  
  

Public Computers

• Entering private information on a public computer at school, work or the library can place your information at risk. It is much harder for you to ensure that these computer systems have the necessary firewalls (which block unauthorized access) and virus protection to prevent hackers from gaining access to the computer and stealing personal data.
  
  

Keep Information Private

• Most people recognize the danger associated with responding to unsolicited e-mails and supplying your credit card account numbers. But you might be unaware of the danger linked to keeping your credit card numbers stored on your computer or with a retailer. True, storing your information can ease or simplify the online buying experience. But once a retailer has your information on file, all it takes is someone breaking into its computer system to acquire your credit card number.