'Tis the Season to be SAFE!

Christmas is around the corner, and many have started buying gifts for their loved ones. The majority seem to turn to online shopping because it is simple, convenient, and very accessible. However, at the same time, it can also be very unsafe.

Here are some tips to help you have a safe online shopping experience this season.

1- Go for Credit, Not Debit!

Debit cards are directly linked to your personal bank account. Should you use them on any suspicious site, the repercussions would be huge to your safety. However, credit cards are safer to use online because they offer you more protection, and even less liability. If you’ve been exposed to a fraudulent site and you’ve used your credit card, you are more likely to be reimbursed.

2- Look for the S as in Secure

Watch out for fraudulent sites before you go entering your personal details and your personal banking information! There are thousands of sites out there that are a front for fraud. How can you stay safe? Look for the “s”! Look for “https” at the beginning of a site’s address. If you don’t see the “s” at the end of “http,” then you know that the site is not encrypted.

3- Update. Update. And update!

While it may be a bit of an inconvenience for you, updating your software is a sure way to be safe as software updates sometimes tackle security patches. Keep this in mind while you shop online. If a software update pops up, go for it as it will keep you safe.

4- Email smartly

Watch out for the hundreds of scams that will be in your inbox this season. Think before you click on a link. No matter how tempting the offer may be, do a little research to ensure it is genuine.

5- Passwords

We cannot reiterate this enough, but you must be smart about your passwords. Use a phrase. Don’t reuse passwords on several accounts. A leaked password for one of your accounts means access to others if you’ve used the same passwords. The easiest way to handle this is to use a password manager.

6- Don’t go public

Watch out for hotspots and public Wi-Fi when you shop. Data transmitted over public network is not secure and the worst thing you can do is use your account or PayPal on it. Keep this in mind as well when you’re accessing your bank accounts online.

7- Keep your eyes open

It’s so easy to click on install when you see a fun shopping app. You may do so but play it smart. See what permissions this new app is requesting. If the app is asking for access to your contacts for instance, then you know something isn’t right.

Remember, identity theft or bank fraud is a very unpleasant experience and would completely ruin your holiday. So, make sure to use smart online shopping tips and keep this season pleasant!