There is no reason to feel insecure about online shopping this Holiday season. With a little research and by following these tips, you can be comfortable that your finances will be secure and your personal information will not be compromised. Here are six simple tips to help keep safe while shopping online:

1. Think Before You Click: Never click links to unfamiliar Web sites. If you use a search engine to find gifts, treat every result with caution – especially the ones promising a link to an unbelievable deal.
2. Install Security Software: At a minimum, your PC should have security software with up-to-date antispyware, antivirus and firewall protection. The best comprehensive anti-malware software available is Webroot Internet Security Essentials
3. Know the Retailer: It is always safer to make purchases from a company you know and trust. If you are unfamiliar with the retailer you want to purchase from, look for more information about the company by contacting the Better Business Bureau.
4. Use a Credit Card, Not a Debit Card: If you are a victim of fraud or cybercrime, most credit card agreements limit your liability for the charges. Additionally, U.S. Federal law limits your liability for unauthorized charges to $50 if a credit card is used.
5. Monitor Your Credit: Many victims do not realize they are victims until they have lost money. It is important to monitor your credit report and/or credit status on a regular basis to quickly spot anything unusual. Credit reporting agencies such as Equifax, Experian and TransUnion are good resources.
6. Ask About a “Single Use” Credit Card: Many credit card companies are now able to issue single-use credit card numbers for online purchases – so you can avoid using your real credit card number online.

Remember that cybercriminals want access to your computer for two reasons: one is to steal your credit card number and CVV, and the other is to install malware for ongoing nefarious reasons. Keeping your computer clean of viruses and spyware is the first step in preventing theft and keeping your financial information secure. Click here for a Free Trial of Webroot Internet Security Essentials and remember to follow the above tips to keep your Holidays happy and secure.

Comments

Add New Search RSS

Write comment

Name: Email:  do not notifynotify Website: Title: UBBCode:         -color-aquablackbluefuchsiagraygreenlimemaroonnavyolivepurpleredsilvertealwhiteyellow -size-tinysmallmediumlargehuge     Please input the anti-spam code that you can read in the image.

Powered by !JoomlaComment 4.0 beta2