6 Smart Ways to Keep Your Card Payments Secure

Credit and debit cards have become a popular payment method among Filipinos, offering both cashless convenience and lifestyle rewards for frequent usage. However, they’re also prime targets for cybercriminals, especially during peak seasons.

Securing your card payments is essential to prevent fraud and protect your financial information. Here are some practical tips to help keep your card transactions safe and secure.

When creating passwords for e-commerce accounts, go for something complex and unique. A strong password includes a mix of uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols. Avoid reusing passwords across different sites, as one compromised account can expose others.

Public wi-fi networks are convenient but often lack encryption, making it easier for hackers to intercept your data. Avoid entering card details on public networks, or if you must, use a Virtual Private Network (VPN) to encrypt your connection and protect your information.

Frequent monitoring of your card statements can help you catch fraudulent charges early. Many banks offer alerts for unusual transactions, which can notify you immediately if there’s suspicious activity. Reviewing your statements regularly can prevent small unauthorized transactions from going unnoticed.

Phishing emails and fake websites are common methods for stealing credit card information. Avoid clicking on links in unsolicited emails. When entering sensitive information, always go to the merchant’s or your bank’s official website. If an email claims to be from your bank, contact them directly instead of using any provided link.

Make sure that your device’s software and apps are up-to-date to help protect against malware and security breaches. Updates often include critical security patches that protect against the latest threats. Regularly updating your smartphone, browser, and payment apps is essential to keeping your credit card information safe.

Major banks offer a credit card control feature allowing you to block your card when you spot or suspect a fraudulent transaction. BPI Debit and Credit cardholders, for instance, can use Card Control in the BPI app and BPI Online.