Guide to Online Shopping Safety and Security

Guide to Online Shopping Safety and Security

Online shopping has become an increasingly popular way to purchase goods, offering convenience and a wide selection of products. However, with this convenience comes the potential for security risks and scams. To ensure a safe and secure online shopping experience, it's crucial to be aware of the potential threats and take steps to protect yourself.

Here's a guide to online shopping safety and security:

Before shopping

  • Shop on reputable websites
    shop on websites you know and trust, with positive reviews from trusted sources. 
  • Look for the https
    The website's address bar should start with "https://" and have a padlock icon, indicating a secure connection that encrypts your information.
  • Check for a privacy policy
    reputable websites will have a clear and easily accessible privacy policy that explains how they collect, use, and store your personal information.
  • Read reviews
    Before making a purchase, read online reviews from other customers to get an idea of the product's quality and the seller's reputation.

When you shop

  • Use strong passwords
    Create strong and unique passwords for each online shopping account. Avoid using easily guessable information like your name, birthday, or pet's name.
  • Avoid phishing scams
    Phishing emails or messages may try to trick you into clicking on a malicious link or entering your personal information. Be cautious of any unsolicited emails or messages, even if they appear to be from a legitimate company.
  • Wi-Fi networks
    Avoid making online purchases or entering your financial information on public Wi-Fi networks, as they are not secure.
  • Use a credit card
    Credit cards typically offer better fraud protection than debit cards. If your credit card information is stolen, you are usually not liable for the charges.
  • Careful order review
    Before submitting your order, carefully review the product details, price, shipping costs, and return policy.

After you shop

  • Keep track of your online orders and receipts. This will help you identify any unauthorized charges or problems with your order.
  • Regularly monitor your bank and credit card statements for any suspicious activity.
  • If you suspect that your information has been compromised or you have been the victim of a scam, report it to the website, your bank, and the authorities.

Additional shopping tips

  • Consider using a virtual credit card for online purchases. Virtual credit cards have a unique number for each transaction, which helps to protect your real credit card number from being stolen.
  • If available, enable two-factor authentication for your online shopping accounts. This adds an extra layer of security by requiring a second verification step, such as a code sent to your mobile phone, when you log in or make a purchase.
  • Make sure your computer and software are up to date with the latest security patches to protect yourself from malware and other threats.

Have you been exposed to a traumatic shopping experience? Share your experience and advice with us.
We wish you a safe purchasing experience