With Black Friday behind us and Christmas just around the corner many are tempted to use the computer to begin their holiday shopping. With big named companies tempting consumers with ‘lower than average’ pricing to be found only on their website, it seems like now would be a good time to shop online.
Be careful though. Don’t let the low prices fool you. Despite the savings to be found with online companies, the price you pay may be well worth more than you can afford. Now is not the time to lose focus on keeping your personal information just that – personal. Despite the temptation to find those ‘amazing’ deals online, be wary of the websites you are visiting.
The following ten pointers will help you prevent online identity theft.
1. Protect Your Computer
Especially with the holiday season approaching, now is the time to ensure your virus protection software is up to date. Make sure your firewall is in place, your anti-spyware is working and updated with the most current information provided. Your security levels while you are on the internet need to be set as well. Ensuring they are placed at a minimum of ‘medium’ while browsing is essential. You can find out what your security level is by going to Tools and then Internet Options. If you are using a wireless connection – make sure it is secured!
2. Update Your Software
Whether you use Firefox, Windows or other web browsers when online, always make sure you have the latest version. The sophistication of the latest virus is mind boggling on its own. It’s essential that you take advantage of the updates as soon as they become available. You can have this done automatically or you can check on your own.
3. Don’t trust the websites
Just because they say they have been in business for years or if their website looks fancy, don’t take their word for it. Research their online presence, as for opinions, do whatever you can before you give them your personal information. Make sure that little lock symbol is in place when you are purchasing an item from them. Never click on a website link that is sent to you in an email. Instead, physically type in the address of the website on your browser. There is malicious programming out there designed for those who haven’t done their research. By clicking on a link, it can lead you to a site that ‘looks’ legitimate but really isn’t.
4. Change you Passwords
It is a good idea to change your passwords regularly for websites you attend frequently. Never use the same password for financial websites and most importantly do not create a password that is easily recognizable to you. Alternate your passwords regularly. With today’s software, it is best to change your password monthly, especially on those websites that contain your personal banking information. Another good practice is to avoid using names or words from the english dictionary and to mix in letters, numbers and symbols.
5. Protect your Information
With over 8 million American’s becoming the victim of Identity Theft this year alone, it is essential that you take the necessary steps in protecting all your information. Only give out the necessary information when filling out a vendor’s purchasing agreement. Don’t click on surveys where you need to fill out your address and phone number, never give out your information unless necessary. Always check any website’s privacy policy before you give them your credit card information or name and address.
6. Protect Your Credit Information
Before you enter your credit card information onto that website, make sure it is secure. If you don’t see a closed padlock on the bottom of your website or at the top of the browser – do not buy! That is the most important thing you can do! Always make sure that the beginning of the website’s address changes to either shttp or to https when you are about to enter your credit information.
7. Payment Options
There are a variety of payment options available now when purchasing online. Paypal and your credit cards are normally the best options. If you do use credit cards, it is best to have one card that has a lower limit to it for internet purchases. Monitor this card to ensure it doesn’t get used by others. Another benefit to using a credit card is that you are protected if someone does steal your information and uses your card for purchases. When you keep an eye on your credit card statements and notice any unusual activity, it is best to inform your credit card company right away.
8. Keep Accurate Records
It is really important that you keep accurate records of every transaction you complete online. Print off the confirmation page, product descriptions that include pricing, print your receipts and all emails from the seller. If there is a discrepancy, report it.
9. Turn off Your Computer
When you leave your computer running 24/7, you leave it open to those who have the ability to install malicious software on your computer. Protect yourself. Shut your computer off at night and during the day when you are not home. Those extra minutes it takes to load up your computer are worth it (despite the hassle).
10. Email Safety
Never open an email if you don’t recognize the sender. Use your junk folders wisely. Never click on a link that you don’t recognize and most important never give out your personal information just because an email tells you to!
If you use these ten pointers during this holiday season, your online identity theft protection has increased significantly. It is important that you don’t forget about internet and computer safety just because a website is promising you a steal of a deal. No matter how great that deal is – it’s never worth your security. Identity theft is a real threat, one that becomes even more real for those who take their protection lightly. Don’t be one of the millions of Americans who experience Identity Theft in 2010. Afterall, there should be only one of you.