Security

People sometimes have queries regarding their privacy on the internet – as well as concerns about buying via the internet since there are such scary stories around.

When viewing information and web pages it is normally not "served" (presented) to you via a "secure" server – and that is fine – as no information or credit card details are given The page address (URL) will normally start with http://www.xyz.com.

The pages where you have the "Add to cart" or the "Go to checkout now" will also be normal web pages.

When you however need to supply personal information, or any credit card details the page that is “served” to you MUST be from a secure server.

Secure servers protect your information by encrypting the information when it is filled in by the client and the transaction is done.

Encryption methods vary, but the most used way is to use Secure Socket Layer (SSL) and in our case – our SSL secured shopping cart uses a 128 bit encryption.

Secure web pages will start with https://www.xyz.com

When you are on a secure website – where you input actual payment information – a lock symbol must also display in the browser.

CVV numbers

For further protection we insist that you supply your CVV number when placing an order – that is the last 3 digits on Visa and MasterCard signature strip (on the right hand side of the card) and the 4 non-raised numbers on the front of American Express cards. So – even if somebody knows your credit card number – they will not have your CVV number – and that helps that your credit card is not fraudulently used.

Master and Visa

Amex

Our shopping cart company – Americart - www.cartserver.com also uses two other systems to ensure that the shopping cart is protected from hacking.

1. McAfee Secure - https://www.mcafeesecure.com/RatingVerify?id=c&ref=cartserver.com 
2. VeriSign Secure Server Authenticity Certificate – https://www.verisign.com/products-services/index.html 

Please note

We accept Visa, MasterCard, Amex and Diners Club credit cards and have also started accepting PayPal.

Comments on on-line shopping security

NEW YORK TIMES (11/13/95)

"The truth is that sending a credit card number to an electronic merchant over the internet is probably the safest way to make such a transaction." "There is more risk in giving credit card data by phone to a hotel."