Ways to Stay Safe When Shopping Online

1.      Be extra careful if you're on a mobile device

-          In today’s society, smartphones have basically replaced computers. We can work and surf the internet with our smartphones and tablets easily as compared to a computer. However, smartphones and tablets aren’t protecting us to go online safely as they usually do not equip with anti-virus software.  This makes it easier for criminals to get malware on your mobile device and steal your information. The shortened URLs that are often used because they're more phone-friendly can also trick you into visiting a risky site since it's harder to tell whether it's secure or trusted. There is also a chance that your smartphone and tablet will be stolen or you lost them, so setting a password to protect your information is crucial.

2.      Don't use public Wi-Fi to shop

-          Most Wi-Fi hotspots don't encrypt your data, so any hacker at your neighbourhood Starbucks or wherever you're sharing Wi-Fi can basically just pluck your identity out of the air if he has the right software. Therefore try to avoid entering personal information when using a public network. This applies to mobile phones as well since most people often use nearby Wi-Fi. Be aware when you're using a hotspot that any information you send through the Internet could be picked up by strangers. If the information could make you vulnerable, wait until you get home to your protected network. Choosing safety over convenience is the smarter way.

3.      Change your passwords regularly

-          It is definitely a pain and inconvenience to constantly update or change your password, especially considering how many different social media platforms we use. And not to mention the trouble it'll take to try to remember them all. But if you really want to keep your information (and bank account) safe while you're shopping via the Internet, it's essential to mix up your account passwords every three to six months. This makes it harder for hackers to keep track of your accounts. Also, try to avoid having the same password for multiple accounts since it would make it easier for all your accounts to be hacked after one has been discovered.

4.      Check the company's privacy policy

-          Reading the privacy policy is the only way to know for sure what a company does with users' information and how it is transmitted. Most of us skip this step, especially when the company was introduced and suggested by a friend. We also hate it when it's lumped with the terms of service that we all say we've read and agreed to (which we never do). However, it's important if you want to make sure your personal data can't be sold to any third parties and that it is encrypted and secure. You've got to know the privacy policy.

5.      Update your browser

-          Each new version of your Internet browser, especially if you use one of the more popular browsers, gets a boost in security. Older browsers, besides not working as well with some websites, often have holes in their security that hackers have discovered and can exploit. The same goes for your operating system and anti-virus software. Updates will keep you ahead of would-be identity thieves and keep your credit safe.

Source: http://www.businessinsurance.org/10-ways-to-stay-safe-when-shopping-online/

Written By:

Rachael Lim Phaikk En

Bachelor of Public Relations (Honours)

Tunku Abdul Rahman University College