Five Security Tips for Safer Online and Mobile Shopping

[vc_row][vc_column][thb_gap height=”15″][vc_column_text]As professionals, we now have more purchasing power due to our jobs and other sources of income. With the rising popularity of online shopping and e-commerce as well as easier access to online and remote payments, many employees now do their purchases from the comfort of their desks, homes, and even in transit. Shopping online is not only convenient, but it gives more options for buyers – from commercial to artisanal products.

Unfortunately, the growth of e-commerce also brought with it security issues for online shoppers. Apps and websites ask for credit card details, mobile phone numbers, passwords, and other financial data aside from browsing and purchase history. Since e-commerce sites also want to make it easier for buyers to purchase, they offer options for users to connect their Facebook or e-mail accounts instead of having to go through a sign-up process. These behaviors and information make it easier for cyber criminals and scammers to obtain valuable financial information.

This is not to discourage nor scare buyers, but security precautions are needed for everyone to get the best out of and have the most fun in shopping online. Here are some tips to take note of:

1. Ask for an e-commerce-exclusive card or a prepaid cash card from your bank.

Banks now offer extension cards to your credit card account that are to be used exclusively in e-commerce and online shopping. These usually have lower credit limits to minimize costs should somebody hack into the buyer’s account. These also have different card numbers from your main credit card.

You can also avail of prepaid cards that can be loaded with credits just at the time you want to purchase online. This further minimizes risks of scammers charging your account with large purchases. Aside from these, you may also opt to have your bank send you e-mails or SMS notifications and other security checks before large charges are made to your account online.

2. Create a dedicated e-mail for online shopping.

Consider creating a separate e-mail only for online shopping. This helps you avoid getting malicious e-mails and spam messages that may compromise your primary e-mail address. You can also easily track your expenses as well as notifications of changes made to your bank account, which can help you spot abnormal activities.

3. Protect your financial information on social media sites.

While indeed, it is easier to just use your Facebook account (or other social networking site for that matter) to sign up to an e-commerce website, you may not be able to notice changes to your account’s permissions settings. Scammers might be able to get to your bank account or other financial information via the connection on Facebook, especially if you have used the site to connect with other payment gateways and e-commerce websites.

While Facebook does have and boast stringent security measures, it still pays to have precautions of your own like using complex passwords, verifying Facebook contacts, and taking note of changes made to your security permissions.

4. Transact only with trusted e-commerce websites.

Go with reputable websites when buying online, since they offer convenient but secure payment gateways especially if you are paying via credit card. Should there be security issues on their side, they can be held accountable by consumers and authorities.

Should you want to buy from other merchants, do your research first and see whether other customers have encountered issues. You may also opt for cash-on-delivery or other cash-based terms if you are buying from them for the first time.

5. Secure your mobile phone and computer with anti-virus software.

Anti-virus manufacturers now also have security applications made for mobile devices. Just as you do with your computer, invest in a reliable anti-virus program for your mobile phone, especially if you do most of your e-commerce activities on it. Research and read-up on the offerings of these applications.

While there may surely be risks transacting online, proper precaution and vigilance are always key to protecting your financial and individual information. If you are more secure, you will enjoy shopping even more![/vc_column_text][thb_gap height=”40″][/vc_column][/vc_row]