In recent years, internet shopping has grown in popularity, owing to its convenience and ease of use. People can purchase almost anything they need or want with just a few clicks of a button and have it delivered right to their doorstep. However, while online shopping is certainly convenient, it also comes with some risks.
Cybercriminals are becoming sophisticated in their methods for obtaining personal information and data, and buyers must be aware of the threats so they may protect themselves. You need to protect your information when shopping online, just as you would when shopping in a brick-and-mortar store. For business owners, it is essential to have data security services to protect their customers’ information as well.
Here are a few essential tips & tricks to help you stay safe while shopping online.
Tips for Safe Online Shopping to save your information
To Secure Your Data, Use Trusted Browser Extensions
We all know that username and password combinations, pin codes, and answers to security questions link somehow with our loved one’s name, graduation, etc. Cybercriminals are always trying to access this type of information. And then, it is used to target phishing scams or other types of fraud.
You need to use trusted browser extensions on Chrome or whichever browser you use to save your information. It helps you create unique and strong passwords for different sites and stores them so you don’t have to remember them all.
Enable Two-Factor Authentication on Your Email Account
Two-factor authentication is multiple layers of security that require your password and a code sent to your phone. This makes it much harder for someone to hack into your account, even if they have your password.
It is easy to implement two-factor authentication on most major email providers, and it’s worth the extra few seconds it takes to log in. Hackers often target business email accounts, as they can contain sensitive information such as customer data and financial records. Two-factor authentication is the best strategy to secure your information.
Set Up “Push” Rather Than “Pull” Payments
Protect your information by setting up “push” payments rather than “pull” payments. In a “pull” payment, the payee initiates the transaction and withdraws the funds from your account. This type of online payment is often used for things like recurring bills or subscription services.
A “push” payment, on the other hand, is initiated by the payer. The funds are transmitted from your account to the payee’s account. Push payments are much more secure, as they cannot be initiated without your explicit permission. Third-party payment vendors like Paypal, Google Pay, Amazon Pay, and Apple Pay are some examples of push payments.
It offers you great buyer protection in case of fraud and doesn’t require you to enter your sensitive financial information on different websites.
Do Not Use Public WI-Fi for Shopping Online
When you are using public WI-Fi in a coffee shop, airport, or any other public place, anyone can see the information you are sending and receiving. It includes passwords, credit card numbers, and other sensitive data.
If you need to use public WI-Fi for shopping online, make sure the website you are browsing is secure (look for HTTPS:// in the address bar). You should also use a VPN, which encrypts all the data sent and received from your device. In addition, businesses have IT security services that help make their WI-Fi networks more secure. Also, make sure to log out of all accounts when you are finished using public WI-Fi.
Beware of Smishing
Smishing is a phishing scam that uses text messages instead of email. Hackers will send you a text message that appears to be from a legitimate company, asking you to click on a link or provide personal information.
Do not click on any links in a text message unless you are sure they are legitimate. Smartphones don’t have the same level of security as computers, so it’s easier for hackers to install malware on your phone if you click on a malicious link.
Text messages sent from spoofed numbers can be challenging to identify, and we believe they are genuine. So be careful while you are shopping online and think twice before taking any action.
Never Give More Info Than Needed
Many websites are now asking for your personal information to complete a purchase or start a free trial. While giving them your real information may be tempting, you should always use a fake name, address, and phone number instead. Only offer them the essential information.
If a full address or phone number is not required, leave those fields blank. The less information you give, the less likely it is that your identity will be stolen. Before providing any information, always check the privacy policy to see how your data will be used and shared.
Many organizations are now using advanced security measures to protect their customers’ information. They hire IT consulting firms to help them with the process and ensure their systems are up to date. So when you are shopping online, look for sites that have these measures in place to protect your information.
Update your software
Updating is the easiest and most effective way to protect your devices from potential threats. When a new security threat is discovered, software companies release updates that patch the vulnerabilities. So it’s prime to install updates as soon as they are available.
Sometimes it seems inconvenient, but it’s necessary in order to keep your devices and information secure. Many times we ignore update notifications, but that puts us at risk. Never ignore an alert to update your software, whether it’s for your computer, phone, or another type of device.
Conclusion
It is easy to fall victim to web scams, but if you know the risks and take steps to protect yourself, you can shop online with confidence. Cybercriminals are constantly coming up with new ways to steal your information, so staying up-to-date on the latest threats is important. Go for data security service to stay away from such threats as professionals know how to deal with them. When you are confused, err on the side of caution and don’t provide any information that isn’t necessary.
Have a safe and happy online shopping!