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If 2020 has taught us anything it’s that cybercriminals are adept at capitalizing on a crisis. The global pandemic led to an increased number of cyber attacks and threats and security experts are warning users to be extra vigilant in response to the threat level.
It’s a catch 22 for online shoppers as many of us rely on digital retailers for even basic essentials amid ongoing stay at home orders.
With that in mind, it pays to check your cybersecurity basics are in place before making online transactions. Below are five actionable ways to bolster your cyber defenses.
1. Encrypt your traffic
One of the best ways to shield your internet activity from would-be attackers is by encrypting your data. A reputable VPN (or Virtual Private Network) is the easiest way to achieve this. Your VPN simultaneously accomplishes two things: it generates a private browsing network and it encrypts data transmissions.
For online shoppers, there’s another benefit to using a VPN — the security software can also help you unlock location-specific prices by allowing you to hide your real IP address, and therefore physical location, and appear online as if you’re in any location of your choice.
2. Verify shopping apps before you use them
Many retailers release dedicated apps to help their customers streamline their shopping experience, this has unfortunately led to a spate of fraudulent apps masquerading as the real deal. Although both Apple and Google’s app stores have shields in place to prevent fake apps from being listed, some still get through the net.
The easiest way to ensure you’re using a legitimate shopping app is to head to the retailer’s website and follow the download app link to the app store. You can also check reviews of the app before downloading.
3. Practice good digital hygiene
Getting back to cybersecurity basics is a great way to keep your data and devices safe while you shop online. Here’s what you should focus on:
- Use long, complex passwords
- Don’t repeat passwords across accounts
- Sign out of accounts when you’re finished
- Don’t complete transactions on open public WiFi networks
4. Stick to trusted retailers
When in doubt, don’t get your credit card out. If you see an offer for a product on social media, for example, you should exercise a fair degree of caution. Even if you get your product, it may not match what was advertised. Plenty of new businesses use social media to get a jumpstart, and not all of them have your best interests at heart.
If you have suspicions about unknown retailers, either conduct some research using a site like TrustPilot or find the product elsewhere.
5. Don’t let sites remember your credit card details
It might make checkouts much faster but allowing sites to retain your credit card details is akin to leaving the front door open when you go out of the house. If an online store is targeted by hackers, your financial information could be compromised. Instead, enter your details manually each time.
Hopefully, the five simple tips above will help you shop online securely in 2021, sticking to the basics and looking into security tips mentioned above can make all the difference when it comes to online safety.