How to Protect Yourself from Online Fraud on Digital Purchases

Three Ways to Reduce Risk When Making Online Purchases

In these uncertain times, there are lots of fraudsters trying to take advantage of you. One of the areas being targeted is online fraud. Fraudsters are trying to steal your personal information so it’s important you protect yourself. Here are three steps you can take to reduce your risk when purchasing products and services online.

Only purchase things from websites that you visit frequently

Fraudsters may send you emails or messages telling you to visit a new website for an amazing offer. Often, these offers are too good to be true and the fraudster is trying to trick you into providing your personal information like your name, social security number, and/or account information. Do not do any business with websites you are not familiar with. Instead, only purchase goods and services from websites you visit frequently or have made purchases with in the past.

Use digital wallets to purchase things online

Many websites will let you pay for goods and services with a digital wallet such as Apple Pay™, Samsung Pay™, or Google Pay™. Your card information is secure when paying with a digital wallet because your card information isn’t stored on your mobile device. Instead, each transaction uses a random, encrypted token to make a purchase. Fraudsters can’t access your card information if you use a digital wallet. All Wisconsin Bank & Trust, a division of HTLF Bank consumer debit cards are eligible for Apple Pay, Samsung Pay and Google Pay

Monitor your accounts with online banking

You should proactively monitor your accounts with online banking or mobile banking. If you notice any suspicious or fraudulent purchases on your accounts report them to the bank immediately. You can also setup alerts to notify you of updates on your accounts.


Digital Wallet
Pay confidently and securely with your mobile device.

Get Started With Digital Wallet


Apple Pay and the Apple logo are registered trademarks of Apple Inc. App Store is a service mark of Apple Inc.

Google Pay, Google App Store and the Google Pay logo are trademarks of Google, LLC.

Samsung Pay is a registered trademark of Samsung.

#Personal Finance Scams #Personal Finance
See More Fraud Protection Resources

Latest Resources

Person viewing phone concerned about scams around the holidays.
Blog Post
Protect Yourself from Holiday Scams This Season
The holiday season is upon us! The weather outside might be frightful, and the halls are decked with cheer, but it’s also the time of year when fraudsters are out in full force. While sleigh bells ring, it’s important to stay vigilant and protect yourself from scams that can quickly turn the season...
Festive background with a person’s cupped hands with a red heart representing giving during the holidays.
Blog Post
Charitable Giving Around the Holidays: How Individuals Can Maximize Impact
The holiday season is a time for giving, and for many, it’s an opportunity to make a difference while also reaping financial benefits through charitable tax deductions. Strategic charitable giving can help individuals maximize both their contributions to important causes and their tax savings. Here...
Vector image announcing ACFE International Fraud Awareness Week, November 17-24. Help fight fraud!
Blog Post
ACFE International Fraud Awareness Week: Protect Yourself and Your Organization
Fraud is a constant threat in today's fast-paced, interconnected world. Each year, individuals and organizations are hit with schemes that can cause devastating financial loss. International Fraud Awareness Week, spearheaded by the Association of Certified Fraud Examiners (ACFE), provides an...
Person shopping on their computer while enjoying holiday pie and cocoa.
Blog Post
How to Budget and Manage Digital Spending for the 2024 Holidays
The holiday season is a time of joy and celebration, but it can also put a significant strain on your finances if not properly managed. As holiday expenses continue to rise each year, effective budgeting and smart digital spending are essential to maintaining financial health. Ready to learn how to...