Online shopping is a convenient and enjoyable activity for millions of people. Yet, along with the convenience of online shopping comes concerns regarding safety. Each year, online shoppers fall prey to cyber thieves. If you want to shop confidently without fear of losing your credit card information or identity, consider implementing these tips next time you shop online.
1. Only Use Reputable Sites
Avoid fringe websites from unknown brands. You only want to trust reputable stores with your credit card information. Major retail brands are a safer bet when shopping online, as they likely have SSL encryption on their site for more secure transactions.
2. Beware of Copycat Sites
Some sites are designed to parallel major brands, but offer merchandise at a much lower cost. Links to these sites may be promoted on social media or through various e-mail initiatives. Be on guard against websites that offer merchandise at significantly lower rates. These copycat sites will have a very similar look and feel to the brand site, but there will be discernible differences if you are a diligent shopper. Be on the lookout for:
â— Different URLs than the brand name (such as .net instead of .com)
â— Different checkout payment options
â— Similar imaging, but in different places on the site
â— "Too good to be true" discounts
3. Implement Security Systems
Protect yourself from data breaches by implementing identity theft protection services like LifeLock. If you're concerned about identity or credit card theft, a security system can provide peace of mind. These services can offer a variety of anti-identity theft support, including:
â— VPN
â— Credit monitoring
â— Alerts to your bank of suspicious activity
â— Dark web scans
â— Alerts on crimes in your name
While there is cost associated with these services, it is a proactive approach to secure your information.
4. Forgo Public Wi-Fi
If you're making online purchases, ensure you're using a private network. Public Wi-Fi may be convenient, but it comes with inherent risks. Your personal information can be stolen more easily off of public networks. If you want to make purchases on the go, invest in a VPN. VPNs provide anonymous internet use. That means it keeps your search history, location, web activity and credit card information anonymous and, therefore, more secure.
5. Check Online Reviews
Unsure if a website is legitimate? Before making a purchase on the website, perform an investigation into the company. A simple Google search may even produce the answers you need. If a website is a scam, it's likely that duped customers have provided online reviews stating buyer beware. Likewise, it is important to report cybercrime if you are on the receiving end.
6. Know Your Credit Company's Policies
If your security measures fail, it is important to know your credit company's policies and features. Freeze your account at the first sign of suspicious activity and report it to your credit company. Many leading credit companies offer "zero liability" for unauthorized charges and will reimburse you if cybercriminals use your card.
Shop With Confidence
Don't be a victim of identity theft. Invest in your financial safety with anti-theft protection and by practicing smart shopping tactics. By following these security and prevention tips, you can shop online with confidence and enjoy the peace of mind that secure shopping brings.