Online shopping is convenient, but it comes with its own set of risks. To protect your data and personal information, follow best practices before and during your purchases.
The Online Shopper’s Safety Checklist
Key steps to shop safely and confidently online:
Verify website legitimacy. Only access websites with “https” and a padlock symbol.
Use strong passwords. Create unique passwords and use a password manager to handle multiple passwords.
Watch for phishing attempts. Avoid suspicious links and look out for red flags like poor grammar.
Enable two-factor authentication. Add extra protection to your accounts.
Monitor bank statements. Check your accounts for unauthorized transactions and report suspicious activity.
Be cautious with public Wi-Fi. If possible, use a VPN to encrypt your connection.
Use secure payment methods. Opt for credit cards and services like PayPal for added security.
Research deals. Watch for unusually low prices that could indicate a scam.
Stay informed. Follow cybersecurity news to avoid the latest scams.
Check return and privacy policies. Review policies before purchasing to protect your data.
Watch for delivery fraud. Beware of fake delivery notifications asking for sensitive information.
