As the holiday season approaches, it’s crucial to stay vigilant while shopping online. Here are some essential tips to ensure your online shopping experience is safe and secure.
When searching for deals online, consider how you’re finding them. Are you clicking on links in emails or visiting trusted vendor websites? Are you clicking on ads on webpages? Think of it this way: you wouldn’t walk into a store with boarded-up windows and no signage. The same rules apply online. If something looks suspicious, it probably is.
Before providing any personal or financial information, make sure you’re interacting with a reputable, established vendor. Cyber attackers often create malicious websites that look legitimate to trick you. Always verify the legitimacy of a website before supplying any information. If you’ve never heard of the site before, double-check before handing over your details.
During the holidays, many of us receive emails from retailers about special offers. Cyber criminals often send phishing emails designed to look like they’re from legitimate retailers, containing malicious links or asking for personal or financial information. Don’t click on links or download attachments unless you’re sure of their origin. If you’re unsure if an email is legitimate, type the URL of the retailer or company into your web browser instead of clicking the link. Never provide your password or personal information in response to an unsolicited email. Legitimate businesses will not ask for this information via email.
All reputable merchants use encryption to transmit information from your browser to their servers. Look in your browser’s location bar to ensure the website address begins with “https:” instead of “http:”. Also, check for the padlock icon. If the padlock is locked, your information is encrypted.
By following these tips, you can enjoy a safer online shopping experience. For more tips on how to stay safe this holiday season visit - Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA).
Stay alert and shop smart!
