How to grab a bargain in the sales without the risks!

Guest post from Simon Ellson.

It’s that time of year again! The Boxing Day sales have begun and if you’re anything like me, then you’re probably sat back in your armchair, avoiding the queues and cold by finding the best bargains online. But just because you’re protected from the elements, doesn’t mean that you’re protected from cybercriminals.

This Boxing Day, cybercriminals will be looking for their own discounts. And our mission? We need to take steps to ensure that it’s not our possessions that they’re getting cheap!

So, here are my 5 tips for keeping your stuff safe this Boxing Day:

  1. Always remember that if it’s too good to be true, it usually is – We all love a bargain and cybercriminals know this as well. Don’t fall for the cheap price tag – as free or discounted goods could end up being really costly. So if you’ve found the latest hot designer shoes, but for a tenth of the price, regardless of how nice they may be for your office Christmas party, they’re probably not real. Cybercriminals are experts at creating websites and making them look identical to your favourite brand sites. I therefore recommend that you only shop at reputable online sites and avoid getting your credit card scammed.
  2. Beware of fake website links – Don’t try and save vital sales shopping time by clicking on links in an email which appear to take you to your favourite online store. Instead make sure you type the store’s address straight into your browser. This will help prevent you from becoming a victim of a phishing attack. Phishers use fake versions of voucher deals to get their victims to a fake version of your favourite shop’s website. Once you’re there they can steal your passwords, log-in details, credit card information, or even your whole identity.
  3. Be suspicious – Even big brands can become victims of cybercrime attacks. Use Norton’s free online tool called Norton Safe Web which identifies and warns you about dodgy sites before you click on them in search results.
  4. Protect your bank details – Always look out for the ‘padlock’ icon at the bottom of the browser frame when making a payment online. This symbol indicates that the website you are visiting uses encryption to protect you, so cybercriminals cannot capture your personal information. Never let a website ‘remember’ your credit card details, always retype them if you want to shop there again.
  5. Check your statements – Always check your credit card statements as often as possible to look out for unexpected transactions. Everyone splurges at Christmas and impulse buys in the sales. It is therefore important to keep an eye on your card transactions. This also lets you know who is using your card and allows you to spot problems before they become difficult to resolve. Also, credit card companies offer consumer protection and if you get in touch with them they will work with you to manage any disputed or unauthorised charges.

    December 26, 2011 | Filed Under Family Online Safety, Identity theft, Security 

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