Because of the 128 BIT military grade code and Secure Socket Layer Technology (SSL) it is actually safer to use your credit card on-line than it is to use it at a restaurant or brick and mortar retailer.
Thousands of online transactions are processed daily. The current security technology allows worry-free online transactions. In fact, several layers of protection work for you. Here are the cold hard facts.
Protection Layer One: Encryption
Your credit card information is encrypted using the 128-bit military grade SSL code. It takes a network of computers and a few months of work to break the code.
In essence, the Secure Socket Layer technology (SSL) makes is impossible to decipher the information even if someone manages to filter out these tiny bits of code in the gigabytes of spam and other useless data that is clogging the internet at any moment.
Protection Layer Two: Address Verification System (AVS)
Stealing someone's credit card number makes no sense to a thief because they will not be able to use it anyway. Here's why: when you order online, you must submit your billing address. If it does not match the transaction will not go through.
Sometimes the AVS blocks even a legitimate order. For example, you move to a new address but forget to notify your credit card company. When submitting an order make sure your billing address matches the one on your credit card statement!
Protection Layer Three: Zero Liability Policy
All major credit cards emphasize that online shopping is safe. You enjoy zero liability on non-authorize purchases if someone has access to your credit card.
-What do you do if your statement contains something that you did not order? -Exactly, you call your credit card company and dismiss the charge.
It's that simple.