As the weather gets colder and the holidays draw nearer, many of us turn to online shopping as a way to get the best deals on gifts and avoid the crowds. But while the ease and accessibility of online purchasing can be great, it also comes with its own share of risks. Here are a few tips for staying safe and secure while you’re snagging gifts this year.
Keep an eye on bank statements
Regularly monitor your bank and credit card statements for any suspicious activity. Report any unfamiliar charges immediately to your financial institution to prevent further unauthorized transactions.
Only purchase from reputable retailers
Stick to well-known and trusted online stores to minimize the risk of falling victim to scams or receiving counterfeit products. Look for secure websites with “https://” in the URL and a padlock symbol in the address bar before entering any payment information.
Keep MFA on all accounts
Enable Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) whenever possible. This extra layer of security significantly reduces the risk of unauthorized access to your accounts by requiring a second form of verification, such as a code sent to your mobile device. Need help with MFA? Check our our guide to all things Multi-Factor!
Be wary of phishing attempts
Exercise caution when clicking on links or opening attachments in emails, especially those promoting incredible deals or urgent requests for personal information. Scammers often use sophisticated phishing techniques to steal sensitive data or spread malware. Check out this post for more info on online safety basics.
Keep passwords secure and strong
Create strong, unique passwords for each online account and consider using a reputable password manager to securely store them. Avoid easily guessable passwords and update them regularly for enhanced security. Need some tips for creating strong passwords? Check out this blog post.
In the hustle and bustle of the holiday season, it’s crucial to prioritize our online safety while shopping for gifts and deals. By following these essential practices we can significantly reduce the risks associated with online shopping. Let’s celebrate the joy of the season without compromising our security. Wishing you safe and secure online shopping experiences throughout this festive period and beyond!