1. Shop with reputable retailers and check site security
Shop directly with online retailers you know and trust. Look for a lock icon in the browser bar and check that the URL starts with ‘https’ rather than just ‘http’. Don’t click on pop-up advertisements and always be suspicious of potential disinformation. Secure websites are configured to mask or hide the data you share, such as passwords or financial information. Shopping on secure sites reduces the risk that your private information will be compromised while you shop.
2. Does that deal sound too good to be true?
Did you spot an ad on Facebook or Instagram offering rock-bottom prices or an eye-popping offer of free stuff via email? If an offer looks too good to be true, it most likely is! Don’t click on links in ads or emails. Compare prices before you buy – unusually low prices could be a red flag that you’ve landed on a fake site or received a phishing email.
3. Don’t shop on public Wifi
Don’t use public Wi-Fi at your favourite mall or coffee shop. This makes it easier for hackers to steal your personal information. If you ever do use public Wi-Fi, protect yourself with a Virtual Private Network
(VPN), which creates an encrypted tunnel between your computer and the server. Cybercriminals lurking nearby won’t be able to see what you’re doing or intercept your personal information.
4. Be wary of phishing emails and SMSs
Found a voucher or a discounted deal with a link? Don’t be tempted to click on the link, especially if it leads you to an online banking profile. Only fraudsters will send you links that direct you to your
banking profile and request you to enter your login credentials. You might get emails or SMSs offering amazing deals or claiming there’s been a problem with a package delivery. Always check which courier service is delivering your online purchases. Clicking on links or attachments in messages could result in your computer or phone getting infected with viruses and other malware.
5. Choose strong passwords
Using the same simple password across your online accounts puts you at risk! Never use the same online password: if one site gets hacked, your credentials can be used to access other sites. Use Two-Factor Authentication wherever possible – it’s the hardest security measure for hackers to exploit.
6. Never save payment details or passwords on shopping sites and apps
Always remember to untick the ‘remember me’ or ‘save for next purchase’ option. If the site is hacked your information could be breached.
7. Monitor bank statements for fraudulent activity
It’s always worth keeping a close eye on bank statements and turning on alerts to notify you of unusual transactions on your account. Criminals know that there will be large amounts of online activity during Black
November, and hope that any unusual debits on your account go undetected.
8. Use Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)
Enable MFA on all your accounts to add an extra layer of security. This means that even if someone gets your password, they will need a second form of verification to gain access to your account.