The holiday season is a time for joy, celebration, love — and shopping. With online shopping being super convenient, it’s easier than ever to find the perfect gifts without leaving your home. Cyber threats are always a worry, but especially so during these high-volume shopping months.
Here are 8 tips to ensure a safe online shopping experience this holiday season.
1. Shop on Secure Websites
Stick to well-known and trusted retailers. If you’re trying a new site, check for reviews and ratings. And, always look for “https://” in the URL and a padlock symbol in the address bar before entering any personal information. These indicate that the website is secure and your data is encrypted.
2. Use Strong, Unique Passwords
Create strong passwords for your online accounts. Use a mix of letters, numbers, and symbols, and avoid using the same password across multiple sites. Same goes for every online account you have, not just the shopping-related ones.
3. Use Secure Payment Methods
Opt for secure payment methods like credit cards or payment services that offer buyer protection. Avoid using debit cards, which are directly linked to your bank account. Also avoid using direct bank transfers or sending cash.
4. Avoid Public Wi-Fi for Transactions
Public Wi-Fi networks are often unsecured, making it easier for hackers to access your information. Use a secure, private connection when making online purchases.
5. Keep Everything Updated
Ensure your devices and apps are updated with the latest security patches. Ensure your computer, smartphone, and other devices are protected with up-to-date antivirus software. This helps protect against vulnerabilities that hackers might exploit.
6. Be Wary of “Too Good To Be True” Deals
If a deal seems too good to be true, it probably is. Be cautious of extremely low prices or high discounts from unknown sellers. Research the seller and read customer reviews before making a purchase.
7. Beware of Phishing Scams
Watch out for emails or messages that ask for personal information or direct you to a website. Always verify the sender’s email address and avoid clicking on suspicious links. Look out for spelling mistakes or unusual email addresses, which can be signs of phishing attempts.
8. Enable two-factor authentication (2FA)
Enabling 2FA on your accounts. This requires a second form of verification, like a text message code, in addition to your password. It’s the extra layer of protection for your purchases.
And, with every online or in-store purchase — and good shopper’s due diligence — remember to always:
- Check return and refund policies.
- Regularly check your bank and credit card statements for any unauthorized transactions and report any suspicious activity to your bank immediately.
- Save copies of your order confirmations, receipts, and any correspondence with the seller.
- Take tips for shopping safely online from organizations like CISA and the FTC
Consumers may be purchasing items using business devices, or doing so on their mobile devices using your business wi-fi. It’s important to stay safe! By following these tips, you can enjoy the convenience of online shopping while keeping your personal and financial information safe. Happy holidays and happy shopping!
Schedule a consultation with Atlantic Technology Services, a Managed Services Provider (MSP), to see how we can assist your business in keeping safe online and protecting the integrity of your business data by managing your IT services. To book a consultation, call us at 410-860-9899 or click here to schedule a meeting.
Ready to fortify your business’s cybersecurity? Fortifi Cyber Security, a sibling company to Atlantic Technology Services, can help your organization protect itself against cyber threats with world-class, highly-affordable security services. Call Fortifi today at 888-500-9111 or sign up for a free vulnerability test.