Tips for secure debit card usage online

 PERSONAL BANKING
Tips for secure online debit card usage
Published
Emmanuel Chukwuebuka




Your debit card makes it easy to use your bank account, and debit cards are accepted almost everywhere credit cards are accepted. But if you have the option to use a credit card, it is probably safer to use credit card, especially when shopping online.

Here are tips from the balance.com on how to safely use your debit card online.


How to stay safe using your debit card

To reduce the likelihood of problems, follow these basic security rules.

Look for the lock
 Make sure you are shopping on a secure website, especially when it is time to enter your card number. Look for the lock icon in your browser and pay attention to any security warnings that pop up.


Monitor your account
 It is always a good idea to keep tabs on your money, and it is especially important if you are sharing account information online. Check your accounts regularly (once per month at a bare minimum—more often is better). And set up alerts in your account so you know when money goes out.

Use secure connections
 Mobile devices and free Wi-Fi make it easy to get things done. But you never know how secure a public hotspot is. If you are going to access financial accounts or punch in card numbers, save those tasks for when you are home or work and know your traffic is safe.


Debit card protection

Federal law offers some protection against fraud in your checking account, but you have to report trouble as soon as possible. If you spot the problem and notify your bank immediately, your liability can be limited as follows:

You are liable for up to $50 if you call your bank within two days of fraudulent use.
You are responsible for up to $500 if you report the problem within 60 days.
You can be held 100 per cent responsible if you don’t report the problem within 60 days.
Some debit cards come with additional protection from the card issuer, so you are safer than federal law requires. These services are often called “zero liability” policies or a similar name.

However, your card still pulls from your checking account—so you will have to wait at least a few days to get your money back. If your checking account is running on empty, that is going to cause a domino effect.