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Odds are you’re using a credit card when shopping online — unless you’ve figured out how to teleport cash (if so, tell us!). Credit cards provide a convenient, secure payment option and the process for making online purchases is typically the same across most websites.
This guide outlines the payment process step-by-step, security features and other factors that come up when you want to use a credit card for online purchases.
Credit card companies have a range of security measures to protect your account from fraud when you shop online.
Many credit card companies provide 24-hour fraud-monitoring services that’ll contact you if there’s suspicious account activity.
If a fraud-monitoring service can’t verify a transaction that’s been made on your account, it will be able to temporarily block your account and investigate further to ensure your credit card is protected against unauthorized transactions.
You may have already been pre-enrolled in Verified by Visa, Mastercard SecureCode and American Express Safekey. You need to enter a one-time SMS or email code each time you use your credit card to shop online.
Note that an online merchant must have registered with the program for the service to work.
American Express, Mastercard and Visa provide zero liability guarantees to cover you for fraudulent credit card use in-store, over the phone and online. Note that these liability guarantees do not cover cash advance fraud.
If you’re the victim of credit card fraud, contact your credit card provider immediately to dispute the transaction.
It depends. You don’t have to re-enter your credit card information when using PayPal, as your information is securely stored in an online vault when making PayPal payments. However, your customer service in the event of a breach may prove less robust than with credit card providers.
Consider these factors when shopping online to make your payment experience even safer.
If you have reason to believe your card is compromised, you’ll want to take a few important steps to protect your account:
Thankfully, credit card providers offer a zero liability policy, so you won’t be on the hook for unauthorized charges as long as you report them properly. Check out our credit card security guide for more information on how providers protect consumers.
Compare credit cards with security protections to find the best option for you. Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express ★★★★★
Minimum credit score
670
Annual fee
$0 intro annual fee for the first year ($95 thereafter)
Purchase APR
0% intro for the first 12 months (then 13.99% to 23.99% variable)
Balance transfer APR
N/A
Rewards
6% on select US streaming services, 3% on transit and US gas stations, 6% at US supermarkets on up to $6,000 annually, then 1% after that and on other purchases (redeem as statement credit)
Welcome offer
$300 statement credit after spending $3,000 in the first 6 months
Chase Freedom Unlimited® ★★★★★
Minimum credit score
670
Annual fee
$0
Purchase APR
0% intro for the first 15 months (then 14.99% to 23.74% variable)
Balance transfer APR
0% intro for the first 15 months (then 14.99% to 23.74% variable)
Rewards
3% on dining at restaurants, including takeout and eligible delivery services, 3% on drugstore purchases, 5% on travel purchased through Chase Ultimate Rewards®, Unlimited 1.5% cash back on all other purchases
Welcome offer
Earn an additional 1.5% cash back on everything you buy (on up to $20,000 spent in the first year) - worth up to $300 cash back
Chase Freedom Flex℠ ★★★★★
Minimum credit score
670
Annual fee
$0
Purchase APR
0% intro for the first 15 months (then 14.99% to 23.74% variable)
Balance transfer APR
0% intro for the first 15 months (then 14.99% to 23.74% variable)
Rewards
5% cash back on up to $1,500 in combined purchases in bonus categories each quarter you activate.
Welcome offer
$200 after spending $500 in the first 3 months
Compare even more credit cards
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5%cash back on travel purchased through Chase Ultimate Rewards®
3% cash back on drugstore purchases and dining at restaurants, including takeout and eligible delivery service, 1% cash back on all other purchases.
Making payments with a credit card has become an incredibly common and safe method of making purchases. However, these guidelines can provide you with an extra layer of safety in protecting your information.
Learn more about
credit card security to keep your finances safe.
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Does my drivers license need to do with applying of a credit card?
Hi King,
Thanks for your comment and I hope you are well.
Credit card providers would need a form of identification when you apply. This shows your residence as most would require you to be an Australian resident.
As a friendly reminder, check the eligibility requirements of the card before proceeding with your application. Also, read about its features and benefits and see how it fits your financial needs. Additionally, it’s helpful to review the PDS and Terms & Conditions of the card before fully committing to the card. You may also reach out to the bank if you have any clarifications.
Hope this helps and feel free to reach out to us again for further assistance.
Best,
Nikki