Most people use online shopping, especially during the holiday season! Though it’s a quick and convenient way to purchase all of your presents, there are notable risks to online shopping. Be sure to use these tips to keep your financial and personal information safe this holiday shopping season:
- Know who you’re buying from – Be sure you are using a legitimate vendor. FEMA suggests reviewing Web Site Certificates to better understand how to do this.
- Always use your credit card, NOT your debt card – Credit cards often have more protection against fraudulent charges than debt cards. To increase your likelihood of protection in the event of a scam, use your credit card for all online purchases.
- Watch to be sure your information is being encrypted – Good signs are if the URL begins with “HTTPS” and if there is a closed padlock in the address bar.
- Don’t respond to emails requesting information unless you can verify their legitimate source – Often times hackers will send out fake emails asking for you to confirm your account or purchase information. Do not click attached links – instead go to the company’s official website and log in from there.
We hope you have a wonderful holiday season! Enjoy your safe shopping!
