News & Stories

November 2024

How to Stay Vigilant while Online Shopping

Cyber Week is one of the most anticipated shopping events of the year. However, with the convenience of online shopping comes the risk of cyber threats. This guide will provide you with essential tips to ensure your online shopping experience is safe and secure.

1. Secure Your Devices

Update Your Software, Microsoft Defender, Install Antivirus Software

Make sure all your devices are running the latest software versions. This includes your operating system, web browser, and any shopping apps. Ensure that you have a reputable antivirus program installed and that it is up to date along with Microsoft Defender enabled and up to date (if applicable).

2. Shop on Trusted Websites

Verify Website Security

Look for https in the URL (address) bar of the websites you visit. The “s” stands for secure, indicating that the site is using encryption to protect your data. Additionally, check for a padlock icon next to the URL.

Avoid Clicking on Suspicious Links

Cyber Week is a prime time for phishing attacks. Be cautious of emails, social media posts, and advertisements that seem too good to be true. Always navigate directly to the retailer’s website rather than clicking on links in unsolicited email and/or text (SMS) messages.

3. Protect Your Personal Information

Use Strong, Unique Passwords, Enable Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)

Create strong and unique passwords for each of your online accounts. Avoid using easily guessable passwords such as your name or birthdate. Consider using a password manager to generate and store complex passwords securely. Two-factor authentication adds an extra layer of security which is usually a code sent to your mobile device and/or email address for verification.

Be Cautious with Personal Information

Only provide the necessary information when making a purchase. If possible, use a secondary email address for online shopping to minimize the risk of phishing attacks on your primary account.

4. Monitor Your Financial Transactions

Use Secure Payment Methods

Credit cards and services like PayPal offer additional protection compared to debit cards. They often provide fraud protection and the ability to dispute charges if something goes wrong with your purchase. Decline any automatic payment save for fast checkout in the future as it is a potential risk.

Check Your Bank Statements Regularly

Keep a close eye on your bank and credit card statements during and after Cyber Week. Report any suspicious activity to your bank immediately.

5. Don’t fall for BIG Savings

Avoid any saving deals that are sent by email or text/SMS message. Even if it is from someone you know.

• BLOCK or DELETE any emails or text message about any savings from UNKNOWN sender
• Confirm any forwarded emails or phone text message from people you know about a “Great Deal” or “Big Savings” by contacting them with the phone number you know and confirm that they actually sent that email or the text message.
• DO NOT click or select the link in the message.
• DO NOT call back any unknown or unexpected “customer service” number. Verify via website and call the website number listed if it is different.