How To Use Your Debit Card Online Safely

  Author: Abhijit Banerjee

Shopping online with a debit card is generally safe, but there are instances of misuse of debit card data. This happens when someone gets access to your debit card details and uses it to make fraudulent transactions.  But worry not. Here are a few things you can do to ensure that your debit card data does not fall in the wrong hands while you do online transactions.

Enable alert for transactions on your phone When applying for a debit card you would require you to register your mobile number with your bank. One can update this information through the ATM or by calling up bank customer care.  Ensure that the mobile number that you currently use is updated in the bank records. This will ensure that every time there is any transaction on your debit card, you get an alert. Just in case you are unsuccessful using this route, visit a nearby bank branch and do the needful. This will help you block your card immediately in case of any unauthorised transaction.

Check website security Websites on which financial transactions are made are securely encrypted. Whenever you are making a financial transaction using a debit card, check whether the URL of the payment page starts with https. Avoid using your debit card for transactions on websites that are not well known. Also, if you have an anti-virus feature installed, it will warn you about websites that are not secure.

Use OTP as a second level of authentication Depending on your service provider i.e. either Visa, Master Card or RuPay, you will be asked to register your card with Verified by Visa , MasterCard SecureCode and RuPaySecure, respectively to generate a secure PIN. In India, all online transactions use a two factor authentication. Apart from putting in details like your card number, card expiry date and CVV number, in the next step you will be asked to put in your secure PIN or you can also ask for a one time password (OTP) to be sent to your mobile number. It is advised that you use the OTP as a second level of authentication.

Avoid public computers and shared Wi-Fi Always use your own PC or laptop for making any online transactions using your debit card. Remember, a public computer may not be safe. For the same reason, avoid public Wi-Fi networks as there is a high chance of the security being compromised.

Use a reliable anti-virus on your computer Invest in the full version of a reputed anti-virus software on your computer which also protects you from spam and spyware. Spyware can infect your computer and steal sensitive information. Such software will warn you when you visit a site that does not have a valid security certificate.  Update the anti-virus software regularly so that it keeps your PC protected against the latest threats.

Never share sensitive debit card information over phone or email Never reveal details like your debit card PIN, CVV number either on the phone or on email. Your bank will never ask you to reveal such data, so be strictly wary of any emails or phone calls asking for such information.

In the end, here is a word of assurance to you on debit cards. Instances of debit card fraud are not very common. However, it is better to be safe than sorry.