Consumer Advice > Tips for ConsumersMarch 05, 2008

Use Gift Cards for Online Shopping

With all the talk about identity theft, I have found one way to shop online and not have to worry about having my credit card number stolen. When I shop on the internet i go out ahead of time and buy either a Visa, Mastercard, or American Express gift card. They are sold in three different amounts, and they can be used online to purchase whatever you want safely. I can now but whatever whenever, and not worry about my credit card number being stolen. I don't use a my credit card online any more.

By Debradj from Illinois

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By Janet (Guest Post) 03/07/2008

It would be OK to have a small amount left on the gift card. It can be used at any walk-in store towards a purchase and any amount over what's left on the card can be paid in cash, check, whatever. Sometimes people don't realize that you can use a gift card in combo with other forms of payment. I have a friend who was actually buying packs of gum, etc., to use up small gift card balances. Not necessary!

By
03/07/2008

Debradj,

Do you go online first and calculate the taxes and shipping charges before you buy the gift card? The reason I'm asking is I would not want to have a small amount left on the card used.

By Lee (Guest Post) 03/07/2008

Just so you know, too, Discover Cards have a super online program called Deskshop. What is does is generate a one-time use only number from your secured information for a purchase. It is a totally safe way to shop online. Just thought I would share. Lee

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