How to shop safely online
During the coronavirus pandemic we're being encouraged to carry out our shopping online where possible to avoid spreading the virus.
Shopping on a secure site
Before you pay for something online, check that the site is secure. The site address should change from ‘http’ to ‘https’. This tells you that the communication between you and the seller is confidential and secure. Some web browsers also have a small padlock symbol in the address bar when the site is secure.
Payment
Most websites will have a similar payment process when you shop online. On most shopping websites, you'll need a credit or debit card to make a payment. When you pay for something online using a credit or debit card you'll need to enter the card security code. This is usually a three digit code on the back of the card.
You do not use your PIN (Personal Identification Number). This is a secret number known only to you. You should never enter your PIN on a website or give it to anyone else.
When paying for things online, some websites will ask you if you want to keep all your card details stored on the computer for next time you use that website. You may want to do this with your home computer but you should never store your card details on a public computer. If you do, the next person who uses the website could have access to your card details and buy things with your money.
Some banks and websites include additional security features to protect your money. This can include an extra step when you pay for things online, usually after you've entered your card details and before you confirm your order.
Examples are 'Verified by Visa' and 'MasterCard secure'. With these, you'll set up a password for your bank account, either online or on the telephone. When you shop on a website that uses this security feature you'll be asked to confirm part or all of your password before your purchase is confirmed. If you forget your password you can select the 'Forgot your password' option to reset it. This usually sends you an email with a link to a reset password page.
Keeping payment records
However you choose to pay for things you have bought online it's important to keep a record of each transaction so that you can check your statements. Keep an eye on your bank account, review your bank statements regularly and check up on any suspicious activity.
Lots of shopping websites also offer a payment method called PayPal. It's a safe and easy way to pay online.
Learn more
Free courses on using online shopping are available on the Learn My Way website.
To register for Learn My Way you'll need to enter your name and email address and choose a password. If you are learning from home, click the ‘Centre’ box and check the ‘I don’t have a centre’ box.