Human Firewall Tip # 24: Online Shopping Security

Lockdown has changed our lifestyle and online shopping is the new norm right now. We have listed down 12 Cyber Security Tips to have a secure online shopping experience.

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1. Https does not mean secure. Unless you know if the online store is legit, think twice when entering your personal information or credit card details on websites that have HTTPS on its URL. Always, use your common sense and think twice. Like what we always say, Trust but Verify.
2. Beware of Malicious adware. Adware is unwanted software that are unknowingly installed on your device and throw up advertisement on your screen. Normally installed from freeware programs. Prevent this by installing personal firewall, anti malware and enable pop-up blocker.
3. Fake domains. Cyber criminals are buying domains that look like one of the popular online stores. As an example, they will buy Amazonn.com to trick people by thinking that this is the legitimate Amazon.com website. Prevent by not clicking on links and review the website URL before visiting.
4. Fake websites. Just like the fake domains, these fake websites are setup by cyber criminals to get your personal information and credit card details. They may even use it to launch malware to your device. The best way is the type the URL of the online store where you want to go and double check your spelling.
5. Monitor bank account. You might be part of previous credit card breach from your bank. This means your credit might be used already without you even knowing it. Ensure to review your online bank transactions and report any items that you are not aware of.
6. Connect securely. Avoid doing online shopping when connected to free wifi. Cybercriminals can intercept your connection, capture your passwords, login details and financial information. Use your personal internet like cellular data on your mobile device, an internet dongle or wait until you are using your own wifi connection at home.
7. Use VPN. When you do not have a choice but to use the free wifi and do online shopping at the same time, make sure to use a trusted VPN connection. This way, your connection to the website is secured which is hard for attackers to see or have access to your connection.
8. Update your applications and operating systems. Do not ignore if your mobile device or computer is requesting to update your applications, browser or OS. On top of making your gadget works smoothly, the update is to add or improve its security features. You can either automatically enable the update or install it manually.
9. Use credit card. Credit cards can give you advantage for potential fraud on your account. You'll be more secure using a credit card, you could get some protections on your purchase, and you can earn cash or points back on your spending through credit card rewards.
10. Secure your online accounts. Take advantage of the security features of your online store accounts like using a strong passwords and enable 2FA. Refer to our Human Firewall Tips 1, 2 and 3 on our website to learn more about strong password, 2FA and password manager.
11. Beware of phishing emails. Now that online shopping is the new norms because of the on-going lockdown, phishing emails will be more prevalent than ever. Be aware of the types of Phishing from our Human Firewall Tip # 9.
12. Stop using shared public computers. Online shopping using shared public computers like in public library or online safe is risky. There is a potential that your online login credentials, credit card details and even personal information may be saved in the computer and be available to someone else. Use your own device instead.

Disclaimer: Following the Human Firewall tips are at your own discretion. Any actions you may take upon the information on this page is strictly at your own risk.