What happens when I use my credit card to pay for something on the Internet?

Hello, I am worried about buying on the internet using my credit card. How do I know what they do with my web site and if it is safe? Can someone explain what happens when I enter my credit card number on a web site to buy something?|||You should only enter your credit card information on secure web sites - this is usually indicated by a lock symbol in your browser and also the site will be HTTPS instead of HTTP. This web site has a animation that explains how a credit card transaction is processed on the internet.|||It depends on the site. If you use Amazon or PayPal, you can bet that your credit card information is safe. Most of the time you will see a little padlock symbol somewhere on the periphery of your browser window (like in the web address bar or along the bottom with other icons). The next time you use your card online on a popular website, look for this icon. Don't be too afraid to purchase online from legitimate stores, so long as you see that the page you're on is encrypted or otherwise secure.





In terms of reading, the same thing happens when you swipe a card at a store, except instead of a microchip that encodes the information that the scanner reads, the numbers and type of card you have are sent to essentially a database that confirms that number exists with a certain company (highly simplified) and then charges it based on an algorithm. For a clearer explanation, see the link included below. We have a family friend who is an attorney for high-profile/very serious identity theft victims. He knows every technical aspect of this stuff down to the formulas themselves (because he has to if he's going to be good at his job).|||It really comes down to what website you are using your card on. I have used my credit card for years online, and have had no trouble at all. Before making any purchases online with your credit card, do a little investigation into the website. Read reviews, and you will be sure to know whether it is safe to use your credit card on the site or not.|||I prefer to shop at online store with known reputation such amazon, ebay,etc. If you are a merchant you can sign up for credit card merchant account at http://1creditcardmerchantaccount.biz