Did you receive a ‘card declined’ message while shopping online? It could be part of a growing scam. Here’s how to protect yourself

LOS ANGELES — Holiday shopping is just around the corner. As you search online for the perfect gift, beware of a growth scam. It all starts with the ‘card declined’ message.

Steve McFarland, head of the Better Business Bureau of Los Angeles & Silicon Valleyshared these tips to protect yourself, plus what to do if you think your payment information has been compromised:

• Make sure the website URL starts with httpS.
• Be wary of fake links pointing to bogus look-alike websites.
• Here are two warning signs to look out for when shopping online: If the website requires you to make a purchase ‘now’ or ‘immediately’ to get a deal; if the website requires you to only use a specific payment app, such as Zelle.
• Before making a purchase, check with your bank or credit card company to see what protections they offer you. For example, do they offer you protection if you buy abroad? What if the purchase exceeds a certain amount: will you be notified?
• If you believe your payment information has already been compromised, you should immediately call your bank or credit card company and cancel the purchase, card and/or account.