Credit card services and online purchase from merchants provide comfort and convenience to credit card holders. However, fraudsters are very creative these days, creating ingenious ways to get hold of your credit card information. Therefore, it is important that credit card holders are aware of these scams and learn the different online security tips to prevent this from happening to them. A good example of a scam is the “Update your Details” email scam where you receive an email from your supposedly credit card provider, requesting you to update your banking details or encode your credit card information to update security. The email you receive will usually contain a hyperlink which connects you to a fake website (controlled by the fraudsters) and you are asked to provide your details. Most of the time, the credit card provider is not aware on the existence of these websites. Here are some tips on what to consider when using your credit card online as advised from Moneybuddy.com.au.

• Never respond to emails that are asking you to follow the link. Most credit card companies do not send emails with links that send you to their web page. Always access your online banking or credit card account using the usual method.

• Purchase only on secure sites and if possible, research first about the website if it is credible.

• Refrain from responding to high-pressure selling tactics where the organisation tries to force you divulge credit card details without delay.

• Never send out credit card details or any sensitive information by email because emails are not secured.