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Step 1
Make sure the virus protection software, firewall, and anti-spyware installed on your computer is current, up-to-date and always switched on.
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Step 2
If you have a high-speed Internet connection, change the password on your broadband modem – many devices are set to default passwords, making it easy for hackers to gain access. Check the user guide or manual to find out how to do this.
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Step 3
Select strong passwords for the websites you use and utilize different passwords for each site. Avoid using obvious passwords, including easy-to-find dates, phone numbers, or names. For websites with highly sensitive information (e.g. bank or credit card websites), use any supplementary password security tools provided.
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Step 4
If you are making a purchase online, be weary of sellers from out of the country, especially those that you are unable to reach via telephone or that have an email address through a free service (i.e. Yahoo!, Hotmail, etc.).
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Step 5
Only shop with secure and reputable websites. To show consumers that they are a secure website, many use a Secure Socket Layer (SSL), which means user page requests and information is encrypted and decrypted to safeguard it. Such sites will have “https” or “https.secure” in the address bar or a tiny padlock icon. Never give out your credit card number to an unsecure website that you don’t trust.
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Step 6
The safest way to make purchases online is using a credit card since fraudulent charges can be refuted with the credit card company.
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Step 7
Always keep a detailed list of each credit card you have, along with the account information and the credit card company’s contact information. If a problem ever arises, contact the card issuer immediately.
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Step 8
Be cautious of emails requesting any sort of personal information including bank account or credit card numbers, social security number, or personal contact information. Do not open any emails or open/download attachments from senders that you do not recognize.
