How to protect against unauthorized purchases?

Question

Ok, I figure that somebody hacked into my itunes account and bought themselves some apps emptying my account down to $1.32.
I've already changed my password so the (insert appropiate profanity) can't do it again easily. I have already contacted support and changed my password.
Untill now I have puchased recharge cards and redeemed these, I don't have a credit card entered on my itunes account. Im not too worried about loosing $17 odd, im more concerned about trying to stop it happening again. Obviously if I buy another recharge card and put more money into my itunes acocunt, some (insert another profanity) can hack in again and help themselves to more apples. ;-)
So, is there another more secure method of buying tunes from itune? I feel uneasy loading a credit card number into itunes now as hackers could get access to my c/c number when they hack into itunes again.
Any suggestions?

Answer 1

Honestly, I've never used the recharge cards. I'm guessing either the hacker did it by typing in a guessed code that happened to be the same one on the back of your card or that you were phished. Apple may have been right and just didn't explain themselves. Most passwords are stolen these days by phishing scams where you click on a link that seems fine on the surface, but really isn't. This gives access to the hacker to see your password the next time you sign into your accounts. Double check that your computer wasn't phished by using google to find for more info. You may want to run your anti-virus (most can check for phishing too, but check with your program's company), but the best defense in stopping it is to change any account passwords you may have including iTunes, your e-mail, bank account, etc. Even if it doesn't seem like anything else is wrong with your other accounts, it's better to change the passwords and be safe. Just be sure your new password isn't easily guessed (ie: using your b-day, a name of a loved one, etc.) -- the best passwords include a combination of letters and numbers -- even a symbol like a # or % would add to the security! You can even use Google to look up ways of creating strong passwords that you'll easily remember.
Apple should be willing to credit your account for whatever was spent. I think they usually do this if you ask, and don't be afraid to threaten that you won't use iTunes anymore for purchasing stuff -- but I believe that all you need to do is ask them and explain that you didn't authorize the purchases. They should even be able to track, more or less, where the purchase was made (ie: city, country, etc.) through the computer hacker's IP address. which may help prove that you didn't make the purchases. Be sure to tell them that nobody has access to your account other than you.
Personally, I use a credit card with iTunes. With a CC, no matter what happens, if Apple is unwilling to refund the stolen purchases for some reason, then it can always be disputed with your credit card company as a stolen purchase (which will let you get a new card number, peace of mind, plus you'll get your money refunded). I think it's a much safer option than the recharge cards.
I hope this info helps and that you get your money back!
Marsha