Know how to shop online smartly and safely

Online shopping is not just about snagging the best deals. It is also about ensuring that you don’t fall prey to fraudsters and hackers, who are scouting for details of your credit, debit card or Internet banking account. Let’s take a look at some strategies that can help you shop online with confidence.

Be smart with Credit Cards

Your Credit Card isn't just a piece of plastic, it's the key to your financial kingdom - so guard it like grandma's secret recipe.
When making Credit Card bill payments, always use a secure network. Keep away from public WiFi like the plague.
Keep your security software up to date, because an outdated antivirus is as useful as an umbrella in a hurricane.

Use Internet banking wisely

Internet Banking is your trusty sidekick in the world of online shopping, but you've got to use it wisely.
Use strong passwords that are harder to guess than the next plot twist in a mystery thriller.
Enable two-factor authentication as a second line of defence.

Set up banking alerts

Online banking alerts are like having your financial security guard. Think of them as your first line of defence in this fast-paced world of online transactions.
These alerts are designed to keep you informed about any significant or potentially suspicious activities happening in your account in real time.
By setting up these alerts, you essentially ensure that you're the first to know if anything unusual is happening.
This might include large transactions, overseas transactions, multiple transactions in quick succession, or even simple notifications when your Credit Card bill payment is due.

Play it safe

Just like garlic wards off vampires, safe banking practices ward off cyber threats.
Avoid clicking on any links asking for your banking details like they're spoilers to your favourite show.
Regularly check your account statements
Choose online stores as carefully as you would choose your lunch from a new restaurant.

Check for SSL certificates and read reviews from other shoppers. Remember, if the deal seems too good to be true, it probably isn't a good deal.

Protection protocols

Your Credit Card comes equipped with some superpowers such as fraud protection. Leverage them to their full potential, ensuring your online shopping spree is more of a joyride than a roller coaster of risks.

Don't take the bait

Phishing scams are the modern-day pirates of online shopping - don't take the bait. Remember, no legitimate business will ask for your financial details through email.

[Also Read: 7 tips to make online buying safe and secure]

Shop smart

Online shopping can be enjoyable provided you practice safe online habits. By using a secure network, managing your Credit Card wisely, harnessing the power of Internet Banking and diligently following safe banking practices, you can shop till you drop, without the worry of dropping your financial guard.

Remember, it's all fun and games until you lose your Credit Card details. So shop smart, stay safe, and don't forget to enjoy the many conveniences of online shopping with Axis Bank Credit Cards.

for taking any financial decisions based on the contents and information. Please consult your financial advisor before making any financial decision

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