Some quick tips for a safe and happy online holiday shopping season:
- Security software: Only shop online if you have up to date security software running on your computer. You can see in the lower right hand corner of your computer if there are any red warnings or a yellow indicator your Windows isn’t updated. Mac users have less to worry about but it’s still recommended to have security software installed.
- Choose who you shop with wisely: Whenever possible, shop online only with sites you’ve heard of.
- Password safety: Create passwords that are different than those you use on other sites. Especially never use the same password for banking that you do when shopping online. Here are some tips.
- Credit cards vs. the alternatives: If possible use PayPal if you’re not familiar with a site so you don’t unnecessarily give your credit card to yet another company.Use credit cards instead of debit cards whenever possible. In the unlikely event that you’ve shopped on a phishing site that isn’t an actual store, you’ll be able to have recourse with the credit card company. It’s nearly impossible to get money back that’s been stolen from your bank account.
