Online shopping is an integral part of our lives, but commonality doesn’t mean there aren’t risks. Fraud and identity theft pose genuine threats. As technology and shopping habits advance, so do the ways cybercriminals find to exploit vulnerable individuals and steal personal information. Don’t think of yourself as a “vulnerable individual”? It can happen to anyone — there were over 1.1 MILLION complaints of identity theft filed with the Federal Trade Commission in 2022 alone. Rest assured, though, there are several steps you can take to reduce the risk of fraud and identity theft when shopping online.
Shop only on secure websites
One of the most important steps to protect yourself from online fraud is to shop only on secure websites. Look for the “https” in the URL and a padlock symbol in the browser address bar. This indicates that the website is using SSL (Secure Sockets Layer) encryption to protect your personal information.
Use strong and unique passwords
Password-guessing has advanced over the years, with cyber criminals eager to access any online account you might hold. It’s crucial to avoid using generic passwords and the same password for multiple accounts. The best method is to use a combination of letters, numbers, and special characters. You can use a password manager to help generate and store strong passwords.
Enable Two-factor authentication
In addition to a strong password, two-factor authentication is a great security measure. It requires two forms of verification before granting access to an account. This could be a password and a text message code, a password and a fingerprint scan, or a password and a security key. By enabling two-factor authentication on your online accounts, you add an extra layer of security and make it more difficult for cybercriminals to access your personal information.
Beware of phishing scams
Phishing scams are a common method used by cybercriminals to steal personal information. These scams involve sending emails or messages that appear to be from legitimate companies but are actually fraudulent. They often contain links or attachments that, when clicked, install malware on your computer or redirect you to a fake website designed to steal your information. To avoid falling victim to phishing scams, be wary of emails or messages from unknown senders, and never click on links or download attachments unless you are certain they are legitimate.
Use a virtual private network (VPN)
A virtual private network is a tool that encrypts your internet connection and hides your IP address. When using a VPN, your online activity is protected from cybercriminals who may attempt to intercept your data or track your online activity. VPNs are particularly useful when using public Wi-Fi networks or when shopping online, as they provide an additional layer of security. However, It’s important to note that while a VPN can improve your online security, it’s not a foolproof solution and other security measures are still important to maintain online safety.
Monitor your accounts regularly
By regularly checking your accounts for any unauthorized transactions or suspicious activity, you can quickly detect and respond to any potential cyber threats. It’s recommended to monitor all of your accounts, including banking, credit card, and online shopping accounts, on a regular basis. Additionally, many banks and credit card issuers offer fraud alerts and notifications, which can help you stay informed of any suspicious activity on your accounts. If you notice any unauthorized transactions or suspicious activity on your accounts, it’s important to report it immediately to your bank or credit card issuer and take steps to secure your accounts.
Be cautious when using public Wi-Fi
When using public Wi-Fi, it’s important to be cautious as these networks are often unsecured, which makes them an easy target for cybercriminals. Public Wi-Fi networks can be easily monitored by cybercriminals, allowing them to intercept your data and track your online activity. As a result, it’s best to avoid using public Wi-Fi networks for online shopping or any other sensitive activities. If you must use public Wi-Fi, consider using a VPN to encrypt your connection and protect your personal information. Additionally, it’s important to avoid accessing sensitive information or making purchases while connected to public Wi-Fi networks. Taking these precautions can reduce the risk of fraud and identity theft while using public Wi-Fi networks.
Shop Online with Peace of Mind
With careful planning and a little bit of effort, the risks associated with fraud and identity theft can be greatly reduced. By following the steps mentioned above – such as shopping only on secure websites, using strong passwords, monitoring your accounts regularly, avoiding public Wi-Fi networks when shopping online – you can ensure that your transactions remain secure. Shopping online has never been easier or safer – so have fun perusing the internet knowing you are taking all the necessary precautions to stay safe and secure.
