Online Security Tips for Cyber Monday Shopping

In recent times Cyber Monday has become one of the most popular days for online shopping in America. It follows Thanksgiving and Black Friday, which many consider to be the official launch of the holiday shopping season. Millions of consumers throughout this period use their mobile devices and computers to search for and purchase electronics and other items at discounted rates.




However, consumers aren’t the only ones on the prowl during the beginning of the holiday shopping season. Hackers and scammers are often busy trying to swindle unsuspecting consumers of personal data which could result in significant loss of cash. For this reason, those who shop online, especially on Cyber Monday, need to take necessary precautions by applying the following online security tips:





Avoid Sites with Insecure URLs



A quick glance at a site’s URL is one way an online shopper can easily determine whether or not a site is secure. While shopping, use sites that begin with https:// since these sites use encryption to protect data transmitted over the Internet. Websites that begin with http:// on the other hand are not secure and therefore should be avoided at all cost. Simply check the address box to determine the URL of sites that you visit while browsing the web for deals.

Ensure Your Computer or Mobile Gadget is Secure



One of the most important protective measures consumers can take is to ensure that their computer or mobile device is equipped with security software and tools that are up-to-date. This will enable them to safeguard their device from hackers who might attempt to compromise their device’s security.



In addition to installing up-to-date anti-malware software, shoppers should also be cautious when connecting to the Internet. Avoid using public Wi-Fi as much as possible since such networks are often insecure and thus common means by which cyber criminals could access gadgets and steal valuable data. In addition, consumers can take their device’s security to the next level by setting up a strong password on gadgets as well as home networks.





Ignore Suspicious Sites, Emails and Pop-Ups



One of the best ways to avoid the traps set by hackers and scammers is to stick with the types of service you know and avoid suspicious links, pop-ups and emails. Since phishing emails could easily enter your inbox, make sure to apply precaution while checking emails. Regardless of how enticing an offer in an email might seem, refraining from clinking links if the email is in anyway suspicious.



Also avoid pop-ups by simply pressing Command + W (for MAC users) or Control + F4 (for Windows users) to close any pop-up windows that appear on your screen.





Use Credit Cards Instead of Debit Cards



When shopping online, use credit cards instead of other alternatives (for instance debit cards). Credit cards are a safer option since such purchases are protected under the Fair Credit Billing Act thus resulting in less liability if you become a victim of fraudulent charges.



Too often consumers throw caution out the window in their eagerness to nab the best Cyber Monday deals. Do not be one of them. By securing your device and network as well as avoiding suspicious sites, emails, and pop-ups, you’ll be able to limit the possibility of falling victim to cyber criminals while on the hunt for the best deals this holiday season.








Online Security Tips for Cyber Monday Shopping