Security

Security

We use the strongest and most secure, commercially available version of 128-bit Secure Socket Layers (SSL) encryption. This is the industry standard for e-commerce and the best solution currently available for secure, online commerce transactions.

SSL encrypts all of your personal information, including your credit card number, name and address. This ensures that your details cannot be read as they travel over the Internet.

There are two visible signs that the page you are using is secure:

The web address will start with https:// - the 's' stands for secure.

There will also be a small, yellow padlock in the bottom, right-hand corner of the browser.

Please note: Waterstone's will never ask for your card's PIN number, your account password or your bank details by email.

If you are contacted or receive an unsolicited email that asks you for your password or personal banking information, disregard the request and report the communication to Waterstones.com for investigation.

What is Verified by Visa/MasterCard SecureCode?

These are new schemes designed to add an extra layer of security to your online shopping. Visa has called their version of the scheme 'Verified by Visa' and MasterCard have called their equivalent initiative 'MasterCard SecureCode'. These are both collectively referred to as 3D Secure.

3D Secure authentication requires the cardholder to register their card to take advantage of this service. This is a one time process which takes place through the card issuer's website and involves the cardholder answering several security questions to which only the card issuer and cardholder will know the answer. The cardholder selects a password and agrees on a secret phrase, which will be used by the card issuer during each online transaction.

3D Secure can be thought of as an online version of 'Chip and Pin' technology, whereby the cardholder has a personalised password registered with their card that is entered during the checkout process.

Internet Shopping Is Safe - ISIS (IMRG Code of conduct)

The IMRG Code sets out basic standards for e-retailing. It is a manifestation of the IMRG members' collective effort towards establishing high industry standards that provides a meaningful point of reference and workable guidelines for e-commerce merchants and facilitators. The IMRG Code is also the benchmark used by IMRG and its members to facilitate self-regulation of the e-retail market: IMRG reserves the right to measure the service of any e-retailer against the IMRG Code, not just those who voluntarily comply with it, and to take appropriate action in order to protect the industry.