Know who you are dealing with – get the sellers’ phone number (not a mobile) and postal address (not a post office box number).

Only shop on secure sites; before submitting card details ensure that the locked padlock or unbroken key symbol is showing in your browser. (The locked padlock symbol is usually found at the top of the screen if you use Internet Explorer 7 or Firefox 2.) The beginning of the online retailer’s internet address will change from ‘http’ to ‘https’ when a connection is secure. In some new browsers, such as Internet Explorer 7 and Firefox 2, the address bar may also turn green to indicate that a site has an additional level of security.

Use sites you can trust, i.e. sites you know or that have been recommended to you.

If you have any doubts about giving your card details find another method of payment.

Never disclose your PIN to anyone and never send it over the Internet.

Click on the security icon to ensure that the retailer has a valid encryption certificate. The address on the certificate should match the primary address in the address bar, e.g. www.amazon.co.uk. This certificate should explain the type and extent of the security and the encryption the site uses.

Make sure all your cards are registered for MasterCard SecureCode and Verified by Visa, and use the services where available. Use the following links to see which retailers are using Verified by Visa and MasterCard SecureCode. Increasingly when you go to pay online with your card you will be given the option of signing up to these schemes that involve you using a password. By signing up you will prevent a fraudster using your card details on  participating sites as they will not know your password. For more  information on these services go to the cardholder card-not-present FAQ section.

Print out your order and make copies of the retailer’s terms and conditions, returns policy and delivery conditions. There may be additional charges such as local taxes and postage, particularly if you are purchasing from abroad. When buying from overseas remember that it may be difficult to seek redress if problems arise, but having all the relevant information will help your bank or building society take up the case if you have any problems.

Ensure you are fully aware of any payment commitments you are entering into, including instructions for a single payment or a series of payments.

Check statements from your bank or building society as soon as you receive them. Raise any discrepancies with the retailer concerned in the first instance. If you find a transaction that you did not make, contact your bank or building society immediately.

If you regularly make transactions over the Internet consider opening a separate credit card account specifically for these transactions.