Online retailers are becoming the preferred outlet for all manners of shopping. In as early as 2016 Cifas estimated that consumers would spend a staggering £1 billion at the end of the year alone online.
With this concentrated period of shopping, comes a higher risk of fraud and identity theft for online consumers. At the time of their report, Cifas also presented that fraud had already increased by 37%.
The main demographics were remarkable in their own right. The report showed that women only make up 36% of adults who have their information breached online. Concluding that the resulting 63% consists of men.
For this reason, we believe that EVERYONE should educate themselves on safe shopping while online. We’ve even provided you with a list to get started.
Safety Tips for Online Shopping
Make sure to diversify your passwords
Having multiple passwords avoids hackers gaining access to all your information if they acquire one of them.
Consider using two-factor authentication (2FA)
Having more than just a password as a security measure makes a big difference when it comes to protecting your identity. You can have a 2FA code sent directly to your phone which you then use to open your account.
Update your devices
Make sure to keep all your devices updated. Hackers will exploit any weakness they can find in your system.
Stick to what you know
Stick with sites and companies you have used before and are familiar with. Some unknown sites may try and lure you in by claiming they still carry this year’s “hot” item when in reality they are a scam.
Use secure sites
Try and use websites that have SSL (secure socket layer). The URL will start with https:// rather than just http://
Use a Credit Report service
If you check your credit report regularly, you’ll soon notice if something looks unusual. This could be a sign your identity has been stolen and is being used to apply for credit. You can get your credit report today here on ScoresMatter.
Use a Dark Web Scan
By the time you realize your credit report looks unusual, it may already be too late. There could be criminals on the dark web attempting to sell your information. You can act preemptively by making sure your information isn’t already on the Dark Web by using our Dark Web Scan.
It is also worth noting that online purchasing isn’t the only form of shopping you need to be cautious of. Point of Sale environments also come with their fair share of threats. Check out our 10 Steps For Avoiding Identity Theft When Shopping.
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