Minnie-Online.co.za

- Credit Card Security -

Secure online shopping

If you're worried about card security when you shop online, register for verified by Visa or MasterCard SecureCode card protection services. These services bring you another layer of security, similar to a PIN at an ATM, giving you peace of mind when you shop at participating online retailers.

Tips for shopping online

Only shop online at secure websites - look for the padlock at the bottom of your screen which helps to protect the information you send via the internet.
Look for reputable internet merchants or stores - anyone can set up a website, so if you are unsure of the company or their online security then ask for more information before you use their service.
Ensure the computer you use has current anti-virus and firewall protection.
Print out copies of online receipts to make it easier to check your statement.

Protect your credit card

Sign your new card as soon as you receive it.
When making purchases, never lose sight of your card to reduce the chance of someone 'skimming' your details, i.e. using a device to copy the details from your card.
Look out for suspicious devices on ATMs or pin pads.
Watch for people looking over your shoulder while you are using the ATM.
Keep your receipts and check them against your statements.
Destroy expired or unwanted cards properly by cutting through the signature and magnetic strip and any chip.
Never give your card to anyone, even family or friends. Instead, if needed you may want to request an additional card for their use.
Never write down your PIN and, if you change your PIN, avoid choosing obvious numbers like your date of birth or the last four digits of your phone number.

Internet Banking and protecting your financial identity

Tips to help protect your financial identity:

Don't provide your PIN or Internet Banking password to anyone if asked.
Delete spam and scam email - if the offer sounds too good to be true - it probably is.
Keep your anti-virus and firewall software up-to-date.
Avoid using public computers for Internet Banking, i.e. Internet cafes, libraries or hotels.

Verified By Visa & MasterCard SecureCode

What is MasterCard SecureCode?

MasterCard SecureCode is the name of the service provided by MasterCard. It uses personal identity information and PINs to provide added protection against unauthorised use of MasterCard cards when shopping at participating online merchants.

What is Verified by Visa?

Verified by Visa is the name of the service provided by Visa. It uses personal PINs and identity information to help protect Visa card numbers against unauthorised use online.

What is meant by a "participating merchant"?

It is a merchant that has registered for the MasterCard SecureCode and\or Verified by Visa service.

For the service to be 100% secure, it is important for banks that issue cards and acquire the transactions on behalf of merchants are certified for this service. Cardholders and merchants need to participate to ensure complete security.

If a merchant is not certified, it is not a participating merchant, and it will not receive the benefit of guaranteed payment.

A participating merchant can be located in South Africa or anywhere else in the world.

How do I know whether a merchant participates in this service?

Most participating merchants will display the MasterCard SecureCode or Verified by Visa logo on their sites.

Even if these logos are not displayed, a merchant may still be a participant and you will be prompted to enter your secret PIN.

How will the online merchant know that I have activated my card or cards for Secure Internet Shopping?

When a card that has been activated for Secure Internet Shopping is used at participating online merchants, your card number will be recognised and you will be prompted to enter your PIN to complete the purchase.

How does Secure Internet Shopping protect me?

When you correctly enter your secret PIN during a transaction at a participating online merchant, you confirm that you are the authorised cardholder and the transaction is then completed.

If an incorrect PIN is entered, the transaction will not be completed.

Even if someone has your credit or cheque card number, the purchase cannot be completed without your PIN provided that you are shopping at a participating merchant.

A fraudster will not be able to use an activated card at a participating merchant as they will not know the secret PIN you selected.

Your SecureCode CSP is the same as your CSP

What are the system requirements for Secure Internet Shopping?

Secure Internet Shopping works with most browsers. However, software that prevents pop-up windows may interfere with the service.

No special software is required for this service.

How will Secure Internet Shopping change the online purchase process?

The online purchasing process will not change, except that now you will be prompted to enter your PIN during checkout and payment.

Do I need to apply for a new card to use of this service?

No, you simply activate your existing card or cards.

Does it matter whether I have a MasterCard or Visa card?

No, both types of cards can be activated for Secure Internet Shopping.

I have additional secondary cards linked to my main account. How does that work?

Activation is for each card and a PIN is linked to that card during activation.

The person whose name the card has been issued in must activate each card.

Does my Secure Internet Shopping PIN change my ATM PIN or Internet banking customer-selected PIN?

No, they are all completely separate.

What will it cost me?

There is no charge for using the service.

When will the transactions appear on my statement?

As soon as the merchant passes a transaction to the bank for payment.

Must I reactivate if my card has been replaced as a result of it being lost or stolen?

Yes, you will need to reactivate if your card number changes.

Must I reactivate if my card has expired?

No, as the card number does not change.

You can apply here for SecureCode protection ...

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