Secure credit cards: how to choose the right one and avoid fraud?

---

Have you ever looked at your bill and not recognized a purchase? Or been afraid to enter your information on a website for fear of being scammed? In an increasingly digital world, choosing a secure credit card has become a necessity to protect your money and your peace of mind.

Today, cards have evolved significantly in terms of technology and protection, but that doesn't mean they all offer the same level of security. Therefore, understanding what really matters, and what is just marketing, makes all the difference in avoiding headaches in the future.

Furthermore, with so many options available, a common question arises: is a virtual credit card safer than a physical one? Below, understand the answer and learn the essential aspects to choose with more confidence.

What are the criteria for choosing a secure credit card?

Consider the following characteristics:

• Security technology: with EMV chip (security microprocessor), tokenization and fraud protection;
• Control via the app: to block, control limits, and receive real-time notifications;
• digital resources: virtual card and integration with digital wallets;
• authentication: via biometrics, password, and two-step verification;
• service: 24/7 support and efficient official channels;
• transparency: Rules regarding data usage, fees, and security.

These criteria help filter out more reliable options. The next step is to find out how to verify, in practice, whether a credit card is actually secure.

How can you tell if a credit card is safe?

In general, it's considered safe when it offers EMV chip technology, transaction encryption, two-step authentication, biometrics, and real-time fraud monitoring. The institution should also allow immediate blocking via the app, send instant alerts, and have efficient 24/7 support to quickly resolve any suspicious activity.

Understand better below!

EMV chip and contactless: transaction security

The EMV chip generates unique codes for each transaction, making it difficult to... cloningContactless payments are also encrypted and have value limits, making credit cards more secure. Contrary to some common myths, it's not easy to "clone" cards simply by contactless payment, as there are layers of protection involved.

3-D Secure 2.0: extra protection during online shopping

This system adds a layer of authentication to digital purchases. This allows you to receive a code to validate the transaction via app or biometrics. With this procedure, financial institutions can reduce fraud because they confirm that it is indeed the account holder authorizing the purchase.

Virtual card: more control in your daily life.

Another tip to determine if a credit card is secure is to check if the institution offers a virtual card option. This type of card allows you to generate different numbers from the physical card, use it for specific purchases, and even create temporary versions. This solution reduces the exposure of your main data and increases security, especially in [context unclear - likely a financial context]. buy online.

Full app control

A secure credit card allows you to temporarily block transactions, adjust limits, and track all purchases in real time. This level of control helps you act quickly in case of any suspicious activity.

In Inter's case, everything is concentrated in the Super App, which brings together complete functionalities for financial management in one place. Besides being practical, it's among the... financial apps One of the highest-rated in Brazil, offering an intuitive and secure daily experience.

Real-time alerts and fraud detection

The most modern systems use artificial intelligence to identify out-of-the-ordinary behavior. In addition, instant notifications allow you to track every purchase and quickly identify problems.

Enhanced authentication (biometrics and 2FA)

The most secure credit cards combine biometrics (fingerprint or facial recognition) with two-factor authentication (2FA), such as codes sent via app, SMS, or token. This process validates the user's identity for sensitive access and transactions, reducing the risk of unauthorized access, even in cases of password leaks.

Data security: LGPD and international standards

Check if the institution complies with the LGPD (Brazilian General Data Protection Law) and standards such as PCI DSS, which regulate the storage and processing of financial data. These standards require encryption, access control, and constant audits, which contribute to protection against leaks, fraud, and misuse.

Customer service and official channels

A secure card requires quick and accessible support. Therefore, assess whether there is 24/7 service through multiple channels, such as chat, phone, and app, and a structured ombudsman service. Transparency in deadlines and protocols is also important, as it ensures monitoring of requests and efficient resolution, especially in cases of fraud or disputes.

What are the differences between a virtual and a physical card?

Feature	Physical card	Virtual card
Format	PVC card delivered to your home.	Available only in the app or online banking.
Primary use	In-person and online shopping.	Online shopping and usage digital wallets.
Card details	Fixed details (number, expiry date and CVV).	They can be different and even temporary.
Safety	More exposed in online shopping.	Safer, as it reduces the exposure of key data.
Password	Required for in-person purchases.	It generally does not require a password for online use.
Block	It can be blocked, but it affects all purchases.	It can be blocked independently.
Replacement	Delay (sending a new card).	Immediate, it can generate another one in seconds.
NFC payments	Yes (approximation).	Yes, via digital wallets (Apple Pay and Google Pay, for example).
Control via the app	Limited to certain functions.	Total: creation, deletion, limiting, and real-time monitoring.

Is a virtual credit card more secure than a physical one?

In most cases, yes, because it reduces the exposure of key data, allows for the generation of temporary numbers for online purchases, and offers immediate control through the app, such as blocking, deleting, and adjusting limits. These features significantly reduce the risk of fraud in digital transactions, such as recurring purchases and subscriptions.

In the current scenario, this precaution is even more relevant, since Brazil registered more than 10 million attempted fraud cases between January and September 2025, according to the most recent data. Fraud Attempt Indicator According to Serasa Experian, this increase demonstrates significant growth compared to the previous year, with approximately one occurrence every two seconds.

Given this context, choosing a secure credit card and knowing what to do in case of suspected fraud is essential to increase your protection and maintain peace of mind in your daily life.

What to do when credit card customer service fails to resolve a fraud issue?

If the problem persists, follow these steps:

1. Block the card immediately to prevent further transactions;
2. Review the transactions and identify any suspicious purchases;
3. Register the complaint and keep the protocol number;
4. Gather evidence, such as screenshots, emails, and receipts;
5. Request a replacement card with updated information;
6. Update passwords and login credentials for the app and linked accounts;
7. Scan your device to ensure there is no malware;
8. Keep track of deadlines and contact customer service again if necessary.

Now that you know what to do when credit card customer service doesn't resolve a fraud issue, check out other common questions on the topic.

FAQ

How do I activate credit card fraud protection?

Through the bank's app: enable real-time notifications, two-factor authentication (2FA), biometrics, and transaction limits. Use your virtual card for online purchases and keep the app always updated. In some cases, it is necessary to activate 3-D Secure in the card's security settings.

How can I increase data security on my credit card?

Avoid saving your card details on websites, use a virtual card for online purchases, and enable two-factor authentication. Keep your mobile app and operating system updated, use secure networks and monitor transactions in real time. Never share verification codes or sensitive information with third parties.

How can you tell if your credit card customer service is good?

Assess whether there is 24/7 support across various channels, such as chat, phone, and app, and whether the response time is fast. Check if there is an ombudsman and their history of problem resolution. Consult reviews on websites like Reclame Aqui and [other websites]. consumer.govand check if the institution offers protocol support.