Why is it important to verify the authenticity of websites before entering card details?

[Student]

Verifying the authenticity of websites before entering your bank card details is an important step to protecting your finances, personal information, and digital security. In today's world, cybercrime, including phishing, fraudulent websites, and data theft, poses a serious threat. Let's take a closer look at why this is so important, the risks of ignoring verification, how to recognize fake websites, and what measures you can take to protect yourself.

Why is it important to verify the authenticity of websites?​

1. Risk of financial data theft: Fraudulent websites are often created to trick users into entering bank card information (card number, expiration date, CVV code, cardholder name). This information can be used for:
   • Withdrawal of money from your account.
   • Making purchases on your behalf.
   • Transferring funds to fraudsters' accounts. For example, a phishing site might appear to be a page of a popular online store, bank, or payment system, but in reality, it collects data for the attackers.
2. Personal information theft: In addition to card details, fraudulent websites may request additional information, such as address, phone number, email, and password. This information can be used to:
   • Identity theft is when someone impersonates you to obtain loans, register accounts, or perform other fraudulent activities.
   • Selling data on the black market, where it can be used for blackmail or further attacks.
3. Malware Installation: Fake websites may contain malicious software (malware), which is downloaded to your device when you visit the site or click a link. This software can:
   • Track your actions (keyloggers record keystrokes, including passwords and card details).
   • Block access to the device (ransomware).
   • Steal other data stored on the device, such as account passwords or files.
4. Financial Losses and Long-Term Consequences. If your card details are stolen, you may face:
   • Loss of money that is difficult to recover, especially if transactions are made abroad.
   • A lengthy process of restoring access to an account or disputing transactions.
   • A deterioration in your credit history if fraudsters use your information to obtain loans.
5. Risk to other users. If your data or device is compromised, scammers can use your account to send spam or phishing messages to your contacts, putting their security at risk.

How to spot a fake website?​

To avoid risks, it's important to learn how to distinguish legitimate websites from scams. Here are the key signs to look out for:

1. Checking the URL
   • HTTPS protocol: Legitimate websites, especially those that request card details, use a secure connection (HTTPS). This is indicated by a lock icon in the browser's address bar. However, HTTPS isn't 100% secure, as scammers can also use certificates.
   • Domain spelling: Scammers often create domains that look similar to legitimate ones, but with slight changes (for example, "paypa1.com" instead of "paypal.com" or "amaz0n.com" instead of "amazon.com"). Check your spelling carefully.
   • Suspicious subdomains or extensions: For example, “secure.paypal-verify.com” or “amazon.ru.com” may be phishing sites because they use unofficial subdomains or domain extensions.
2. Website design and functionality
   • Design Errors: Fake websites often have poor design, spelling or grammatical errors, and inconsistencies in logos or fonts.
   • Intrusive pop-ups: If a site aggressively asks you to enter data or download something, this is a reason to be wary.
   • Lack of contact information: Legitimate websites usually provide company information, including a physical address, email, and phone number. If this information is missing or appears suspicious, it's a red flag.
3. Offers that are too good: Fraudulent websites often lure users with incredible discounts, free gifts, or urgent offers to promptly enter their card details. For example, "Pay now and get an iPhone for $1!"
4. Unreliable Links: If you accessed a website via email, SMS, or instant messaging, check the source. Scammers often send phishing links disguised as official notifications from banks or stores.
5. Lack of reviews or reputation: If the site is unknown, search for reviews online. Use services like Trustpilot, VirusTotal, or forums to check the site's reputation.

How to protect yourself?​

To minimize risks, follow these guidelines:

1. Use a secure connection
   • Make sure the site uses HTTPS. Click the lock icon to verify the security certificate.
   • Avoid entering card details when using public Wi-Fi without a VPN.
2. Check the site's reputation
   • Use tools like VirusTotal to check URLs for malicious code.
   • Check the domain using WHOIS services to find out when it was registered. Recently created domains are often used by scammers.
3. Use antivirus and browser extensions
   • Install an antivirus with anti-phishing protection (e.g. Kaspersky, Bitdefender).
   • Use browser extensions like uBlock Origin or HTTPS Everywhere for added security.
4. Use two-factor authentication (2FA) If your card details are linked to an account (for example, in an online store), enable 2FA to prevent fraudsters from gaining access even if your password is leaked.
5. Use virtual cards. Many banks offer virtual cards for online purchases. These have a limited balance or expiration date, reducing the risk of major losses.
6. Don't trust suspicious emails and messages.
   • Do not click on links from unverified emails or messages.
   • If you received an email from a bank or store, open their official website manually, not via a link.
7. Check your card statements regularly Set up transaction alerts and regularly check your bank statements to quickly spot suspicious charges.
8. Learn and be vigilant
   • Learn about phishing attack examples and stay up-to-date on cyberthreat news.
   • If a website raises doubts, it is better to refuse the purchase and find an alternative.

Example of a fraud scenario​

Imagine receiving an email stating, "Your Amazon account has been blocked! Verify your card details using the link to unblock it." The link leads to "amazon-security.com." You enter your details, and a few days later, you notice unauthorized charges. This is a classic phishing scam: the site was fake, and the information was stolen. Checking the website's URL, design, and reputation could have prevented this situation.

Conclusion​

Checking the authenticity of websites before entering card details isn't just a precaution, but a necessary skill in the digital age. Fraudsters are constantly evolving their methods, so it's important to be vigilant, use reliable tools, and follow cybersecurity best practices. This will help protect your money, data, and nerves, as well as prevent threats from spreading to other users. If you're unsure about a website, it's better to spend time checking it than to deal with the consequences of fraud later.