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How Do I Pay for Things Online?

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The thought of purchasing items online using your bank information can seem scary, especially with the rise of security breaches and hacking. Fortunately, there are multiple ways you can purchase things online with relatively little risk. When you do choose to shop online, make sure you're shopping on a secure, reputable website. You also want to make sure the URL to the website starts with the letters "HTTPS" and shows an icon of a padlock to the left of the web address, which indicates it's a secure server. Once you're done browsing, consider using one of these payment forms to complete your purchase.

Debit Card

One of the most common ways to pay for something online is to use your debit card that's linked to your bank account. This method can be risky though, so you should exercise caution when you choose to use it. When you use a debit card over other methods of payment, you're putting yourself at risk of being phished and having someone steal your account information because you aren't protected against fraud as thoroughly. This is especially true if the online account you're paying through stores your card information. If debit is your only option, it's simple to select your items, proceed to checkout and enter in your debit card information. Once all the necessary fields are filled in, you're able to submit payment and finalize your order.

Online Payment Company

Online payment companies, such as PayPal, Stripe, Due and Square, can be a lot safer than using a debit card that's linked right to your bank account. These methods keep your bank account information private, preventing phishers from accessing that information. Many of these companies have applications you can download on your phone and/or tablet, making it easy to keep track of your purchases or make them on the go. Programs such as PayPal are free to use and don't have any monthly maintenance fees that a bank normally does. Even though these types of companies are more secure, you should still use caution and keep an eye on your account, checking for any signs of fraudulent activity.

Credit Card

Credit cards typically have more protections in place for keeping your information secure. You should still use caution when using a credit card online though, making sure you shop only on secure websites and never on public servers. Always make sure your computer's antivirus software is up to date, too. If you're not sure about a certain website and are worried about payments online, you can always check the Better Business Bureau to find out more information about the company.

Prepaid Debit Gift Card

Prepaid debit cards work just like regular debit cards, except they aren't linked to your actual bank account. You can purchase a prepaid debit card at most retailers and fill the card with the necessary funds using cash, debt or other payment methods. Many prepaid debit card companies can send you an online statement so you can keep track of your spending. It's a lot safer to use this method because if a hacker was to get any of your information, the only money that would be put in jeopardy is the money on the card and not the money in your bank account.

Apple Pay

Apple Pay is a payment method used on Apple products such as the iPhone and iPad. You can use this method in physical stores, on apps and for making secure purchases online. With Apple Pay, you can even learn how to take payments online from other people. One of the benefits of Apple Pay is that you don't even have to download an app to use it — simply ask Siri. You set up Apple Pay by adding the information of the debit or credit cards you wish to use. Then, when you go to pay for something, you can choose which card gets charged.