Security Tip of the Week – How to shop safely online

Online shopping has become a popular way to purchase items without the hassle of driving to the mall or fighting through the weekend crowds. According to data from the U.S. Census Bureau, online shoppers spent $3.3 trillion in 2007 and growth rates are expected to be in the teens for years to come.

Although online shopping offers convenience, it also carries the risk of exposing personal and financial information to would-be attackers looking to defraud or impersonate unsuspecting consumers.

Attackers can target online shoppers in a variety of different ways: by intercepting unsecure transactions; by creating fraudulent web sites and e-mail messages; or by targeting unprotected computers. However, there are some simple steps that online shoppers can take to make themselves less vulnerable. Here are a few suggestions:

• Only do business with reputable vendors. Before you provide any sensitive information, make sure you are dealing with a reputable, established vendor. Locate and note contact information and how customer issues are dealt with.
• Make sure sensitive information is encrypted. Look for a URL that begins with "https" instead of "http". This indicates a layer of security. Also look for a padlock or shield icon, which indicates recognized encryption software.
• Use a credit card. Always use a credit card to pay for transactions, rather than a debit card, money order or other forms of "cash".  Credit card companies will provide a certain amount of protection against fraud, limiting or eliminating your liability.
• Be wary of e-mails requesting information. Banks and legitimate businesses do not request sensitive information via e-mail. Even though e-mails may look official and even include logos and other corporate branding, they could be phishing attacks or other scams. Check with your bank or vendor before you respond.
• Use different passwords for different vendors. Don't use the same password for all your online accounts. If a password is intercepted or stolen from one account, it makes all your other online transactions vulnerable as well.
• Keep software up-to-date. Make sure your browser and operating software is up-to-date. Attackers are constantly looking for vulnerabilities in operating systems and manufacturers regularly offer updates to eliminate potential weaknesses.
• Use anti-virus and security software. Protect yourself against viruses and spyware by using anti-virus and Internet security software. Make sure your security software is current.