Check out these tips and tricks for safer online shopping to keep your data and your bank accounts safe!
Online shopping has become so ubiquitous because we’re living in a digital world. But something that’s been bothering many people lately is how easy it is for cyber attackers to steal credit card details and make purchases without the owners ever knowing. With a bit of knowledge and caution, you can avoid all the mistakes that will lead to lost passwords, stolen credit cards, hacking, and more.
So whether you’re shopping online because of great deals, or simply trying to save time, these tips and tricks will help you have safer online shopping today!
How to Safely Shop Online
Online shopping is a great way to save money and time, but it’s also an opportunity for scammers who want to steal personal information from unsuspecting web users. With that in mind, we’ve compiled seven tips for safer online shopping.
Only Shop on Well-Known and Reputable Sites
Buy products or services from well-known online sellers because they’ve been tested and found to be trustworthy. Here are some tips:
- Research the site and check online reviews.
- Look for the “HTTPS” prefix in the browser’s address bar. Its presence means the site is secure and uses encryption technology to keep your personal information safe. Also, look for a padlock icon next to the prefix. If there isn’t one, it means the site is insecure because Google has not verified it as safe.
- Look at the shop’s name and logo – websites almost always contain these two things so you can easily notice them when scouring the web.
Use a Proxy Server
A proxy server protects your online identity and privacy. It can hide your IP address and location, making it harder for attackers to find you. It also acts as a security block, and attackers must penetrate it to reach your machine.
Proxies can also help you bypass geo-restrictions on certain websites. The good news is there are many options in the market, and you can get unlimited proxies for as little as $0.80! This will definitely help create safer online shopping habits.
Beware of Clickbait
One of the most important things to know when shopping online is that clickbait is spam and can lead to you clicking on advertisements or links that aren’t safe for your computer. Some websites use clickbait to lure you into reading an article or watching a video with nothing of value.
Avoid Public Wi-Fi
Public Wi-Fi is not secure, and using it might be one of the worst things you can do when shopping online. Such networks are a hacker’s best friend. Cyber attackers are likely to target free Wi-Fi users when they want to steal data or install malware on a computer.
If you use public Wi-Fi anywhere, know that you’re broadcasting all your browsing activity and personal data, including banking records, to strangers. Shop online using your private network because it’s much safer than public ones. You can alternatively use a VPN or proxy if public Wi-Fi is the only option available.
Use a Firewall and Antivirus Software
Use a personal firewall and antivirus software to block unauthorized access to your computer, as well as remove malware before it can infect your device. You can also keep your system up-to-date with the latest security patches to prevent hackers from exploiting vulnerabilities. Configure your antivirus software correctly and set it to scan your system regularly. This will keep you safe when shopping online or browsing casually.
Create Strong Passwords for Online Accounts
Passwords and cybersecurity are inseparable. Choose a long, complex password that’s hard to guess but easy to remember. Don’t use a common word or name; instead, try using an unusual one that’s not in the dictionary. It’s also advisable to include numbers and special characters.
Don’t Share Too Much Information
Not sharing your personal information at all is the best way to enhance your safety online. In that regard, never share the following details when shopping online:
- Social security number
- Financial information, such as credit card number and bank account number (unless the website is HTTPS-enabled)
- Your family’s details
- Car information
- Passwords
Always Remember the Dangers and You Can Have Safer Online Shopping Experiences!
We hope these tips will help you keep safer online shopping habits for the rest of your days! Remember, there’s no such thing as 100% security! But if you use common sense and pay close attention to cybersecurity, you’ll enjoy a safer online shopping experience. Also, remember that it’s better not to buy anything than to lose your money or expose sensitive information to fraudsters!
