There are millions of credit card numbers going around the Internet, and relatively few have been compromised. In today's credit climate, it's very possible that you might not even be made to pay that. In general, a good company will update its computers for known vulnerabilities that allow hackers to exploit them. It will also carefully check for problems with Java and browser-based programs. It will also take the sensitive information, like credit card numbers, off the Internet servers after the company receives it.
Many vendors do handle sensitive information properly.
Under the proper conditions, I will send my credit card number over the Internet. Doing business with a reputable website greatly reduces the risk associated with Internet commerce. Hopefully, many vendors will start handling their websites properly. Ask Ira . TechTV Inc. All rights reserved.