How to safely apply for a credit card online

If you’re looking for a new credit card, applying online can be quick and easy. But scammers are always looking for new ways to access information. So it’s natural to have concerns about identity theft when you submit information online.

Credit card issuers have security measures in place to help keep the application process secure. But there are also some things you can do to help keep your personal information safe.

What you’ll learn:

• It’s usually safer to apply for a credit card online if you’re on the issuer’s official website and using a secure internet connection.

• Some credit card issuers have stringent security measures designed to help protect applicants’ personal information.

• You can help keep your financial details secure by using your personal device to access your data and avoiding public Wi-Fi networks.

Applying for a credit card online is generally secure because of the security features issuers use to protect your personal information. Here are a few:

• Encryption: Trustworthy sites use Secure Sockets Layer encryption, indicated by a padlock icon and “https” at the beginning of the URL. 

• Multifactor authentication: A website may use two-factor authentication to verify your identity. For instance, in addition to using a password, you may need to enter a security code sent to you by text or email.

• Firewalls: Credit card issuers use firewalls to help protect against unauthorized access and cyberattacks.

• Cookies: Cookies can help authenticate your device whenever you visit a site so you don’t have to reenter personal information.

• Automatic sign-out: If your session remains inactive for a certain amount of time, the site or app may automatically sign you out for your protection.

Here are four actions to consider taking if you’re applying for a credit card online:

One way to help protect your data is to use your own computer or phone. This could help avoid spyware on public computers or a friend’s device.

If you can’t use your own computer or mobile device, you might be able to apply in person, over the phone or by mail.

You can boost your devices’ safety by making the recommended updates to their operating systems and apps. Updates may include security patches that help protect you from the latest threats. Some devices may even have an option to automatically download and install updates. 

Antivirus software can add another layer of security, particularly to computers. It can help you detect and stop potential malware that could infect your devices and steal your information.

When you submit your credit card application, you’ll be sending your personal information over the internet. So it’s critical to use a secure connection. 

If you’re using public Wi-Fi, someone else might be able to see your personal information. Even a public Wi-Fi network that requires a password, like at an airport or a coffee shop, could put your information at risk. There are services that provide virtual private networks to help keep your information private by creating a secure connection between your computer and the internet. 

And if you’re at home, the Federal Trade Commission has some tips on how to secure your network to help keep your internet activity protected.

Credit card issuers use strong encryption to keep your information safe. But you could run into trouble if you unknowingly apply on a spoof site. 

A scammer could create a website that looks like a bank website and use it to collect your personal information. To help protect yourself from online scammers, it’s a good idea to be cautious about what you download. And the Federal Communications Commission says, “Never click links, reply to text messages or call numbers you don’t recognize.”

Banks like Capital One have programs designed to detect scams. And there are precautions you can take to make sure you’re on the correct website. That way, you can be more confident your application is going to the right place.

When applying for a credit card online with Capital One, you’ll be asked to provide personal information like your full name, date of birth, Social Security number, physical address and estimated gross annual income.

To protect this information from unauthorized access and use, Capital One has an information security program that includes administrative, technical and physical measures. You can read more about Capital One’s commitment to security and how Capital One helps keep your identity safe.

When applying for a credit card online, it’s a good idea to use your own device on a secure network before submitting any personal information. And it’s important to make sure you’re using the credit card issuer’s real website.

If you’re new to credit or searching for your next credit card, Capital One can help: 

• See if you’re pre-approved for credit cards without harming your credit scores. 

• If you’re looking to build your credit with responsible use, explore cards for people with fair credit. 

• Earn unlimited 1.5% cash back on every purchase, every day with a cash back rewards card. 

• Monitor your credit report and score with CreditWise from Capital One. It’s free for everyone and using it won’t hurt your credit.