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Tip of the Week: Cyber Week Online Shopping Security Tips

The Monday following Black Friday is one of the biggest online shopping days of the year, and many retailers have now extended the online shopping deals to last all week.

Although online shopping can be a convenient way to shop, it is not without some risk. Below are a few precautions to help keep your money and information safe.

1. When shopping online, use familiar sites. Look for the SSL (secure sockets layer). Make sure the website address starts with https:// to verify the site’s security.

2. Be very careful with email offers & links. If you don’t know the company or the offer seems too good to be true, don’t click on the link. It is a sure fast way for your information to be stolen & sold.

3. Check your checking account and bank statements regularly. Make sure all the transactions listed were authorized.

4. Use credit cards over debit cards – disposable credit cards or gift cards are even better. If your debit card gets compromised, you risk your checking account being emptied out and most banks won’t cover the loss as they do for credit card theft.

5. Do not respond or click on any emails or text messages that are claiming to be your bank. Your bank will NEVER try to contact you requesting information about your account in this manner.

6. Do not store your credit card information on websites. It’s convenient, but there is always the risk of your information being stolen or compromised.

7. Use strong passwords and change them periodically. Do not use the same password for all your online accounts. Mix it up. If there’s an option for a two-step security authentication, do it! Such as a pin number sent to your phone.

8. Do not use part of your Social Security Number as your pin number. If any of your personal information has been compromised, this is the first set of numbers that will be tried as a pin number.

9. Make sure your PC & laptops are protected with an antivirus and up to date with the latest security patches.

10. Do not use public terminals or shop online in public places. Shop online at home vs. your local coffee shop or library.

11. Secure your smartphone with a screen lock in case it’s stolen or lost.

12. Do not save your passwords, pin numbers or banking information on your phone, computer or laptop. Write them down and keep this information in a secure place.

If you take the time to follow these tips when making online purchases your shopping experience can be a fun and safe way to shop.

Additional Resources for Shopping Online:

FTC Safety Consumer Information:
Comparing Products Online
Video for Shopping Smart Online
FTC Computer Security

Rampart Group’s Client Resources:
Improve the Security of your Computer
Improve the Security of your New Computer

Kathy Leodler Chief Executive Officer Email:kathy.l@rampartgroup.com Phone: (360) 981-2703 PI License #3555

Paul Leodler Executive Vice President Email:paul.l@rampartgroup.com Phone: (360) 981-3397 PI License #4180

We at Rampart Group are committed to your security. Call 1-800 421-0614 or contact us today with your security or investigative needs.