A Guide To Safe Shopping Online
Many people shop online to save money
Many people shop online to save money. Others like shopping online because it is comfortable and easy - after all, when you shop online, you avoid the hassle of going to a store, and you can wear your pajamas if you like. Still, shopping online presents more opportunities for fraud, so effective security is crucial. Below, you'll find the tips and tricks you need to make your holiday transactions more secure, so you can buy with confidence for the ones you love.
STEP ONE: SECURE YOUR COMPUTER
To protect yourself from online shopping threats, you must first secure your own computer and Internet connection. This includes ensuring you are employing some basic, common-sense methods of information security on your personal computer, including:
1. using an up-to-date antivirus/anti-spyware application,
2. installing a firewall (most computers already come equipped with one-you simply need to turn it on), and
3. password protecting both your computer and Internet connection, and changing these passwords on a regular basis.
Additionally, some web browsers offer high-security navigation; consider using one of these browsers to do your holiday shopping online.
STEP TWO: KNOW YOUR ONLINE STORES
You should be familiar with the merchants you are visiting. If the need to use an unfamiliar vendor does arise, look for these features to help determine their legitimacy:
1. validated postal address and landline telephone number;
2. clearly listed payment, delivery, and return information;
3. good standing with the Better Business Bureau; and
4. secure online payment gateway (at checkout, your browser's navigation bar should begin with "https" and display the padlock symbol).
Also, be aware that fraudulent merchants often look and sound similar to legitimate businesses. For instance, the company's name or web address might be missing a character. In this case, be sure to navigate from the real merchant's home page to your desired product, rather than using a link or a search engine. It's important to note, however, that some merchants will employ a third party vendor to handle and complete the transaction, so don't be alarmed if you're directed elsewhere at checkout.
STEP THREE: MAKE SECURE PAYMENTS
A major concern when shopping online is protecting your money and related information. As such, the most widely accepted and secure method of payment is an electronic transfer of funds via credit card, debit card, or instant transfer from a checking account or online financial service like PayPal. The amount of liability protection you'll receive for fraudulent activity using any of these options depends on your financial services provider, but most offer complete coverage.
Avoid making payments with cash, checks, and money orders. These forms of payment put you, the consumer, at a higher risk because of limited liability coverage.
COMMON ONLINE SHOPPING SECURITY MISTAKES
Unfortunately, even the best of security measures can be compromised by human error. As our online shopping guide concludes, here are a few common computer security mistakes made by online shoppers:
1. divulging sensitive information (like a password or PIN) through email or unsecured sites,
2. not logging off from a merchant site,
3. not printing records or receipts of purchase,
4. not closely monitoring banking statements.
By taking a few precautions, you can protect yourself from fraud and safely scour the web for the perfect gifts for your loved ones this holiday season.
by: Richard McNeal
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