Paying safely online: Which payment method to use when

The Most Important Rule

Only pay on pages whose address you have personally verified. Never click on links from unexpected messages. Many fraud cases begin not at the payment stage, but with the click beforehand.

Payment Methods Compared

• **Buy on account:** You pay only after the goods have arrived. This is the safest option for you as the buyer.
• **Direct debit:** If an unauthorized debit occurs, you can usually request a reversal from your bank weeks later.
• **Credit card:** In case of fraud or non-delivery, you can request a chargeback through your bank. Pay attention to the additional verification via the app.
• **Payment services with buyer protection:** Useful only if you actually use the buyer protection features—payments made “to friends” are generally excluded.
• **Prepayment by transfer to unknown parties:** Almost impossible to recover. Only use this method for merchants you know and trust.
• **Gift cards and cryptocurrency:** These are almost never refunded, which makes them particularly popular with scammers. Never use them as payment to strangers.

How to Recognize a Secure Payment Page

• The address matches the shop or belongs to a well-known payment service.
• The connection is encrypted (https), and your browser displays no warnings.
• You are not pressured to act quickly (“only 2 minutes left”).
• Your bank asks for approval via its app—read carefully what you are approving.

Typical Scams

• Fake shops with unrealistic prices that accept only prepayment
• Classified ads: “I’ll send you a link so you can receive your money”—this usually means you are supposed to enter your card details.
• Messages demanding payment for an allegedly unpaid invoice or customs fees
• Phone calls where you are asked to approve a “chargeback” in your banking app

Paying on the Go

When using unfamiliar Wi-Fi networks, pay using your VPN or mobile data whenever possible. This prevents others in the same network from reading your data or redirecting you.

If Something Goes Wrong

• Call your bank immediately to have your card or access blocked—in Germany, you can reach the emergency card-blocking hot line 116 116 at any time.
• Request a chargeback or the reversal of the direct debit.
• Secure evidence and file a police report.

Our guide on fake shops and our first-aid page will help you proceed step by step.