Applying Online for Credit Cards Online Safety Ask the Experts AARP Bull
Applying Online for Credit Cards, Online Safety - Ask the Experts - AARP Bull...
Photo by Getty Images Make sure you see the security lock icon when entering personal information online. Information you're sending to the bank will be scrambled so that it will be useless to any trying to steal it en route. Also, look for a lock icon at the bottom right side of the page, another visual sign that the site is secure. It should always be you who initiates an application of this kind. If you get email offering you a credit card, and perhaps asking for your don't assume it's legitimate and don't share any information. If you're interested in the offer, call the bank. If it's offering no such deal, pat yourself on the back: You've just avoided being a victim in a "phishing" expedition.
In phishing schemes, identity thieves send official-looking emails asking you to apply for a credit card, update online account information or confirm a transaction. Whatever form it takes, it's an attempt to Some phishing emails contain links to what look like the websites of well-known national companies. Even experts can't always tell the difference when they're at a fake site. To learn more, check with the or . Also of interest:
Carole Fleck is a senior editor at the AARP Bulletin. Cancel You are leaving AARP.org and going to the website of our trusted provider. The provider’s terms, conditions and policies apply. Please return to AARP.org to learn more about other benefits. Your email address is now confirmed. You'll start receiving the latest news, benefits, events, and programs related to AARP's mission to empower people to choose how they live as they age. You can also by updating your account at anytime. You will be asked to register or log in. Cancel Offer Details Disclosures
Is Applying Online for a Credit Card Safe
Check security and be alert for ' phishing' scams
Q. Is it safe to apply for a credit card online? I want to get a card from a specific bank but I live too far from a branch to go there in person. A. Identity theft is a concern, but today most banks use secure online To make sure the bank's website is safe, look for "https" at the start of its address. The "s" stands for "secure." See also:Photo by Getty Images Make sure you see the security lock icon when entering personal information online. Information you're sending to the bank will be scrambled so that it will be useless to any trying to steal it en route. Also, look for a lock icon at the bottom right side of the page, another visual sign that the site is secure. It should always be you who initiates an application of this kind. If you get email offering you a credit card, and perhaps asking for your don't assume it's legitimate and don't share any information. If you're interested in the offer, call the bank. If it's offering no such deal, pat yourself on the back: You've just avoided being a victim in a "phishing" expedition.
Related
In phishing schemes, identity thieves send official-looking emails asking you to apply for a credit card, update online account information or confirm a transaction. Whatever form it takes, it's an attempt to Some phishing emails contain links to what look like the websites of well-known national companies. Even experts can't always tell the difference when they're at a fake site. To learn more, check with the or . Also of interest:
Carole Fleck is a senior editor at the AARP Bulletin. Cancel You are leaving AARP.org and going to the website of our trusted provider. The provider’s terms, conditions and policies apply. Please return to AARP.org to learn more about other benefits. Your email address is now confirmed. You'll start receiving the latest news, benefits, events, and programs related to AARP's mission to empower people to choose how they live as they age. You can also by updating your account at anytime. You will be asked to register or log in. Cancel Offer Details Disclosures