8 best security tips for your Credit Cards

As a Credit Card owner, taking adequate security measures is just as important as optimising your spending habits. With a few simple strategies, you can keep your card protected from potential scams and fraud. If you plan to apply for a Credit Card, then be sure to practice safety measures from Day 1. Here is a checklist of measures you can take to enjoy a stress-free, safe, and secure Credit Card experience.  

8 easy ways to keep your Credit Card protected

Follow these tips to keep your Card Card safe from scams and fraud: 

Keep your card with you 24/7

The first step is to ensure that your Credit Card is with you at all times, especially when you are outside your home. There is a greater potential for misuse if your card leaves your sight, whether you’re in a store or restaurant or in the hands of an untrusted stranger or acquaintance.  

When swiping, please request a mobile Credit Card payment kiosk if you are far from the cash counter. Be especially cautious with contactless cards, which do not need a PIN while using. Never leave such a card out of your sight, and be especially careful when travelling with it in a public space.

Strategically manage your PIN 

When you apply for a Credit Card successfully, it comes with a unique four-digit Personal Identification Number (PIN). When purchasing, you must feed in the PIN to authenticate usage. Be sure to change the original PIN and choose a new one that is hard to decipher. Avoid common ones such as birthdays and anniversaries. Another strategy is to change the PIN every six months or so.  

Also Read: Credit Cards: Six reasons why you should have a credit card

Always use a secure network 

When making purchases online, ensure that you use a secure Internet network. For instance, online shopping in your own home is safer than shopping, say, at an Internet cafe or when using a public network. Public networks could expose your card to hackers or those seeking to commit identity theft.

 

Beware of phishing emails 

With the growth of online fraud, you must be doubly careful to only click on authenticated online links. You may receive fraudulent emails that mimic your credit card provider or any other legit platform, such as an eCommerce platform. On clicking, your Credit Card details may get copied, or your computer may get hacked. Authenticate all emails before clicking on any link. 

Monitor SMS/ email notifications

  

When you apply for a Credit Card, the system registers your email ID and contact number. You will instantly start receiving emails and SMS informing you of all activity on your card. Monitor updates at all times and be alert to any unusual activity on your card. For instance, if you observe a transaction not made by you, immediately notify the bank and block your Credit Card.

Only transact on secure websites 

When using your Credit Card online, always make sure to use it only on trusted platforms. If the platform does not come with a secure payment gateway, then it is advisable not to use it. Do your research well, and establish the legitimacy of any platform before swiping your Credit Card.  

Set a smaller transaction limit 

Even though your credit limit may be high, consider setting a smaller transaction limit.This option ensures that even if someone steals your card, they will only be able to make purchases as per the value of the transaction limit.

Chose a legitimate service provider 

Today, several service providers offer Credit Cards. When you apply for a Credit Card, ensure you do so with a legitimate service provider

Also Read: 6 benefits of using a Credit Card

Conclusion 

Credit Cards are a must-have product for your financial arsenal. But always do your research on the service provider’s security history. By following the 8 security measures in this article, you can guarantee a safe and secure Credit Card experience from Day 1. Axis Bank, for instance, offers a range of safe-to-use Credit Cards. Choose one that aligns with your needs. You can win rewards, score exclusive deals, and earn cashback. Seamlessly apply for a Credit Card via Internet or mobile banking, and start shopping securely.

Disclaimer: This article is for information purpose only. The views expressed in this article are personal and do not necessarily constitute the views of Axis Bank Ltd. and its employees. Axis Bank Ltd. and/or the author shall not be responsible for any direct / indirect loss or liability incurred by the reader for taking any financial decisions based on the contents and information. Please consult your financial advisor before making any financial decision