Safe payment methods
The safest way to pay online is to choose methods with buyer protection and chargeback options. When a website is new to you or you’re unsure if it’s legit, avoid irreversible payments.
Recommended
Credit cards (Visa/Mastercard/Amex): strongest chargeback rights when goods don’t arrive or are misrepresented.
Well-known payment processors offering disputes and purchase protection (read their coverage terms).
Use with caution
Bank transfers / wires: typically irreversible. Avoid for first-time or unverified sellers.
Cryptocurrency: fast but final. Only use with known, established platforms—no chargebacks if things go wrong.
Gift cards: common scam vector. If asked to “pay with a gift card,” stop and re-evaluate.
Before you pay — quick checklist
- Does the site show a real company name, address, and support contact?
- Is the domain older than a few months and using valid SSL?
- Are there recent reviews on independent platforms?
- Do you have a clear refund/returns policy screenshot?
Still unsure if the site is legit? Read Is this website legit? or report it for a manual check.