Shoppers spend more than a billion dollars on Cyber Monday. With all that money changing hands it's important to keep cyber security in mind. Studies show that two-fifths of shoppers have stopped or abandoned a purchase on a website in the last year because of a safety or security concern. But when the deals are hot there's a risk of forgoing online safety in the name of a good deal. Keep these simple tips in mind in order to stay safe on Cyber Monday.
Install Security Software on Your Phone
More and more people will be taking part in Cyber Monday through their smartphone. According to an annual home user study from National Cyber Security Alliance (NCSA) and McAfee, in the last six months half of Americans have researched potential purchases from their smartphone and 18% have made online payments from their mobile device. Three in four report accessing the Internet more from their phones than they did a year ago, but 72% say they have no security software on their phone. Mobile malware is expected to impact one in 20 devices within the next two years. “Technology has enabled us to enhance our shopping experience with the ability to research pricing, reviews, and product purchase options with ease not previously possible,” said Michael Kaiser, Executive Director of the National Cyber Security Alliance. “With this new convenience comes a new responsibility to practice vigilance this shopping season. People must be aware of the risks they face when making purchases online and ensure that they are using sound judgment to protect their personal information and prevent the loss of data.” Experts advise protecting all devices that connect to the Internet-- including your smartphone.
Refrain From Setting Up Accounts
Although it can be tempting to allow a website to save your information to make future purchases faster, experts say that's not a great idea. You're leaving sensitive data in the hands of a retailer who may not be taking adequate security steps. Instead, re-enter your name, address and credit card information each time you check out. And whatever you do, don't use the same password that you use for your email or banking.
Shop with Credit or Through PayPal
Racking up extra credit card debt on Cyber Monday is not a good idea, but using your credit card for security reasons could be. If the store ends up being a scam or your product never arrives you are more likely to get your money back if you paid with a credit card rather than debt. That's because credit cards often carry protection guarantees that debit cards don't. Another great option is to shop through PayPal. The funds will be withdrawn from your bank account by PayPal, not an unfamiliar website.
Look for SSL Encryption
Shop only on sites using SSL encryption if you're going to be entering personal information and credit card numbers. There are several ways you can identify a secure site. First, look for the padlock symbol in the lower right hand side of the page. This may also be a key symbol. Your second clue is in the web address. If it starts with "https" and not simply "http" you are more likely to be safe when making purchases.
Get Help From Security Add-On
Nearly 28 million people are checking out the sites they're surfing on by using a tool called Web of Trust. It's a free add-on you can download at mywot.com. It gives you a guide as to how trustworthy a website is based on millions of user experiences. You'll receive a warning if the site has been known to generate spam or phishing schemes.
Don't Shop Through Links
On Cyber Monday get in the habit of typing web addresses in yourself rather than clicking on links you find in your inbox or posted on social media. You may think you're heading to a trusted site when in reality you're entering dangerous online territory. Sometimes scammers set up legitimately looking sites but instead of selling a product they're stealing your identity which is not a fun way to kick off the holiday season.
