How to Shop Safely on Cyber Monday
With the end of Thanksgiving and the start of the holiday season, it’s hard not to be tempted by great deals, especially those you find online on Cyber Monday.
According to Visa, an 18 percent increase is projected in online holiday spending this year. This is a 16 percent growth over the 2015 season from the year before.
It is imperative that shoppers protect themselves and their personal information today and the rest of the 2016 holiday season.
Check out our list of tips to help keep you safe while shopping online!
Make sure your computer has anti-virus software to detect and remove viruses and keyloggers who can steal your identity when you use a bank or credit card to purchase an item online.
Anti-phishing software is also a must on your computer and most reputable anti-virus programs will contain anti-phishing software that help detect phishing scams.
Look for the https:// when you’re entering sensitive information online (like your credit card info, address, etc.). The S stands for secure. A lock or a similar icon in the address bar will also indicate that you are on a safe site.
Secure your wireless network with a password. This is to make sure others cannot access your personal information without your knowledge and permission.
Choose a password that has different numbers, letters and symbols. The longer the password, the better. It is always a good idea to log off a website after you complete an online transaction.
Don’t click on unfamiliar links to sites that are advertising sales, coupons, or the like.
If you suspect identity theft, take action immediately! Contact your credit card company, your bank, all three credit reporting agencies, and the police.
Happy shopping!
Information obtained from:
15 safety tips for shopping online over the holidays, Brett Williams; http://mashable.com/2016/11/21/online-shopping-safety-black-friday-cyber-monday/#Pp6SrwFwaqqo
Online shopping safety tips, Chicago Tribune; http://www.chicagotribune.com/sns-holiday-shopping-tips-story.html
