As the peak Christmas shopping season draws nearer, security analysts are predicting that hackers and fraudesters will be busy targeting online users. Vasco Data Security International is urging consumers to keep in mind these eight tips to have a secure shopping experience this festive season.
Commenting on the importance of being vigilant when shopping online, Jan Valcke, the President and Chief Operating Officer at Vasco Data Security International Inc, said: “Understandably, consumers rely on retailers to secure the data used to make their online purchases, and yes, much of the onus should lie with the retailer. However, an educated consumer is a secure consumer. Retailers could and should do more to promote safe online shopping. Providing general awareness on how to shop safely online will help to create greater understanding of any potential online dangers they may face. Such understanding will increase consumer knowledge and confidence to shop online more.”
· When an ‘S’ makes all the difference
Make sure that 'https: -- not just an 'http: -- is at the start of the webpage address at the top of the screen before you input credit card information. This all-important ‘S’ means that a secure, encrypted connection is in place between your computer’s browser and the website you’re visiting.
· Be an inquisitive Inspector
Purchase your items from a trusted website or storefront. Using an unfamiliar website and sharing confidential credit card information increases the risk of credit card or identity fraud. Be extra cautious – remember to closely inspect the online channel before making a purchase. This includes reading the general terms and conditions and contact information as well as checking shipping and additional costs.
· Banish your online naïvety
More From This Section
Does the offer sound too good to be true? If so, it probably is. Consumers shouldn’t click on emails or web links from unfamiliar senders with offers too good to be true – they are likely to be scams.
· Check before shopping
In the run up to a shopping spree, take a few minutes to make sure the anti-virus and anti-spyware software on your electronic devices are up-to-date.
· Keep your boss happy; work @ work
Limit online shopping whilst at work. Not only will online shopping annoy your boss, it may decrease your level of protection. In recent years employees have increased their personal shopping activities from their work devices, but without knowing how well the IT department is securing their transactions.
· Go private
Purchases should not be made from public devices as often these devices are not adequately protected. This includes the use of public Wi-Fi; a favorite place for lurking cyber criminals, ready to tap into your information.
· Strong, stronger, strongest
Strong passwords must always be used to protect personal and account information. Such strong passwords should be randomly generated by authentication devices, cannot be reused and are only valid for a limited amount of time.
· Demand banking levels of security for everyone, everywhere
Be sure to buy from resellers that offer a convenient and secure login. Many UK banking customers are already comfortable with the use of tokens that generate One Time Passwords when accessing their bank account online.