I was on the phone with my 75-year old father yesterday. He was telling me about his concerns regarding applying for a credit card online. Naturally he was concerned about security and protecting his identity. I thought it might be a good idea to review some of the guidelines for online credit card application that I shared with him.
The internet has made reviewing, comparing and applying for a credit card easier than ever before. However, it’s not without its faults and anyone who is applying should pay careful attention to the following check points:
Never apply by responding to an email offer. Email has become a favorite vehicle for identity thieves. They’ve gotten very good at making their email look like it is coming from a trusted institution - they’ll use authentic logos and even similar URLs but most legitimate banks/institutions will never ask you to verify your account via email. Play it safe and if an offer looks good, go directly to a reputable credit card website or to the source to apply.
Use reputable card comparison sites. There are any number of card comparison sites that will be able to provide you an overview of the different cards and their offers. Watch for signs that the copy is complete and up-to-date before completing an application. When you’ve found a card that looks good; reputable sites provide a link that will transfer you directly to the card issuer site.
Look for signs of security. Read the “About Us” section of the websites. Look for certificates such as “Hacker Safe” that protects against fraudulent activity and/or the Verisign certificate. And, when you are being transferred to an application website, make certain there it is protected with SSL technology.
Denise Wolf is a freelance writer who works with CompareCards.com to help consumers make informed credit decisions. CompareCards.com is a privately held organization and has assisted thousands of consumers in making credit decisions. Use can use the Online Card Comparison tool at www.comparecards.com, to simplify your search of the many credit cards and apply online.
Tags: applying, apply credit card
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