More and more transactions in Polish e-commerce are conducted online – card payments have become a daily routine for both buyers and sellers. However, the question still arises: is it safe to provide your card number and CVV? With the ever-increasing number of online scams, it's important to understand the mechanisms that protect your money and how to pay by card online in a safe and informed way. Learn how the security systems work, how to avoid threats, and which guidelines help protect your card data during online shopping.

How does online payment work, and is it safe to provide your card number?

The online payment mechanism is simple and secure, provided you use verified solutions. During a transaction, the user provides the card number, expiration date, and CVV code, and these details are immediately encrypted and sent to the payment operator. Then the bank verifies the transaction and, in most cases, asks for additional confirmation through the 3D Secure service, for example via a mobile app or an SMS code. Thanks to this, even if someone learns your card details, they won't be able to complete a payment alone. Providing your card number and CVV is safe as long as the transaction is made on a site with an SSL certificate operated by a trusted provider such as Przelewy24, with additional authentication in place.

It's also important to remember some basic security principles, such as:

  • not sharing card details with third parties,
  • using personal devices only,
  • monitoring your transaction history.

These simple steps significantly reduce the risk associated with online payments.

Good to know: A card number is a 16-digit sequence that identifies your payment card, while the CVV (Card Verification Value) is a three-digit code on the back of your card that serves as an extra layer of security. It confirms to the merchant that the person making the payment has the physical card, not just its number.

Is it safe to pay by card online? Advanced security features

Payment operators, such as Przelewy24, implement multi-level security systems that protect card data at every stage of the transaction.

  • SSL/HTTPS encryption – ensures the information sent between you and the store is encrypted. You can identify a secure site by the padlock icon in the address bar and the “https” prefix;
  • 3D Secure authorization (e.g. Mastercard SecureCode, Visa Secure) – requires payment confirmation, usually with an SMS code, banking app, or biometric verification. Even if someone knows your card details, they won’t be able to complete a transaction without this authorization.
  • Tokenization – your card data is replaced with a unique token that is only valid for a specific transaction.

Additionally, banks and payment operators monitor each transaction for potential risks, and chargeback services allow you to recover funds in case of unauthorized transactions. Virtual cards, transaction limits, and real-time fraud detection systems are also increasingly used. These solutions minimize the risk of your card being misused even if its data is compromised, giving you real control over the security of your online payments.

Example: If a customer enters only the card number without the CVV/CVC code, the system will automatically reject the transaction. That’s one reason why whether entering your card number and CVV is safe depends not only on technology but also on users' awareness and behavior.

Also check out payment solutions from Przelewy24

Safe online payments – practical rules and good practices

Your online safety depends not only on technology but also on how you use payment tools. Above all, choose only trusted e-commerce websites and never provide your card data via email or phone – your bank will never ask for such details through those channels.

Always check for an SSL certificate (green padlock), use up-to-date antivirus software, and avoid making payments over public Wi-Fi networks. Do not save card data on unknown websites or in your browser, unless absolutely necessary.

Never share your card details, CVV code, or banking login information with third parties. Regularly checking your transaction history and taking prompt action if anything looks suspicious will effectively minimize risk and help you maintain full control over your online payment security.

Tip: It’s a good idea to use virtual or single-use cards, especially when shopping at new or unfamiliar stores.

It’s also worth checking the payment methods offered by Przelewy24

How to pay by card online?

If you’re wondering how to pay by card online, here are a few important tips, also relevant from a B2B perspective:

  • use only certified payment operators,
  • ensure the payment page uses HTTPS protocol,
  • offer customers alternatives like Apple Pay or  Google Pay,
  • do not store card data in store systems.

Summary: is providing your card number and CVV safe, and how to protect your data during online payments?

Paying by card online is now one of the safest forms of online transactions – as long as you follow recommended security practices and use trusted operators like Przelewy24. Modern technologies (SSL, 3D Secure, tokenization) combined with user awareness ensure effective protection of your funds.

Being aware of potential threats and acting cautiously when entering your data boosts security. Remember that security standards are improving every year, and the support from operators and banks ensures the safety of your transactions.

FAQ

  • Is it safe to provide your card number during online shopping?
  • Yes, as long as you use trusted websites with SSL certificates and 3D Secure authorization. Never share your card number with third parties or by email or phone.
  • How can I pay safely by card online and protect my card data during online shopping?
  • Follow the rules: use secure connections, don’t save your data on suspicious sites, set limits, and monitor your transaction history. Consider using virtual or prepaid cards.
  • Why is my online card payment declined even though the data is correct?
  • This may be due to a security block, limit being exceeded, or data errors. Contact your bank, check card settings, and use official payment solutions like Przelewy24.

Sources:

  • https://www.przelewy24.pl/blog/nowoczesne-metody-platnosci-w-ecommerce-2025 [last accessed: 22.01.2026]
  • https://www.bankier.pl/smart/czy-podawanie-numeru-karty-jest-bezpieczne-to-zalezy [last accessed: 22.01.2026]