Expert Tips for Safe Online Shopping

The holiday season is just around the corner, and for many of us, that means online shopping for gifts, decorations, and everything in between. While the convenience of shopping from home is undeniable, it’s important to remember that cyber threats are at their peak during this time of year. 

To help ensure your holiday shopping experience is safe and secure, here are our top 10 tips for safe online holiday shopping:

1. Shop on Trusted Websites

Start with trusted and reputable retailers. Stick to well-known brands and websites with secure checkout pages. Look for the padlock symbol in the browser’s address bar, indicating the website uses SSL (Secure Sockets Layer) encryption to protect your personal information.

2. Enable Two-Factor Authentication

Enable two-factor authentication (2FA) for your online shopping accounts where possible. This adds an extra layer of protection by requiring you to verify your identity with a second method (like a text message or authentication app) in addition to your password.

3. Use Strong and Unique Passwords

Create strong, unique passwords for each of your online shopping accounts. Avoid using easily guessable information such as your name or birthday. A password manager can help you securely store and manage your passwords across multiple sites.

4. Beware of Phishing Scams

Phishing emails are designed to look like legitimate communications from retailers or financial institutions, but they often attempt to steal your personal information. Be cautious of emails that ask for sensitive details or provide links to unfamiliar websites. Always verify the sender’s email address before clicking on links.

5. Check for HTTPS and Secure Checkout

Before entering any sensitive information, make sure the website’s URL starts with “https://”—the “s” stands for secure. Additionally, ensure the website has a secure payment gateway during checkout, which provides extra protection for your financial details.

6. Use a Credit Card, Not a Debit Card

When making online purchases, use a credit card instead of a debit card. Credit cards typically offer better fraud protection and don’t provide direct access to your bank account like a debit card would. Some credit cards even offer additional protections for online purchases.

7. Monitor Your Bank Statements Regularly

Keep an eye on your bank statements throughout the holiday shopping season. If you notice any unauthorized charges, report them immediately. Many credit card companies offer fraud detection services and can help you resolve any issues quickly.

8. Shop Using Secure Networks

Avoid shopping on public Wi-Fi networks, such as those at coffee shops or airports, as these can be insecure. If you must shop on public Wi-Fi, consider using a Virtual Private Network (VPN) to protect your personal information from prying eyes.

9. Don’t Fall for Too-Good-to-Be-True Deals

While online deals and discounts are enticing, be wary of offers that seem too good to be true. Scammers often use unrealistic prices to lure shoppers to provide payment information on fake websites. If a deal looks too good to be true, it probably is.

10. Keep Your Devices Up-to-Date

Ensure your computer, smartphone, or tablet is running the latest operating system updates. These updates often include important security patches that protect against new threats. Additionally, make sure your antivirus software is up-to-date and active while shopping online.

Turn to Fortec US For The Latest and Greatest in Technology

With these ten tips, you can enjoy a stress-free and secure online shopping experience this holiday season. Stay vigilant, and remember that your personal and financial information is valuable, so protect it accordingly. Happy shopping from Fortec US, and may your holidays be filled with joy and peace of mind!

Fortec US in Ronkonkoma, NY, is here to help with your tech needs, specializing in touch screens, optical bonding, digital signage, and more. If you need support or assistance with your digital infrastructure, contact us today!