A reminder to residents about holiday online shopping safety
Opportunities for online scams rise during the holiday shopping season. Protect your personal information and shop safely with these cybersecurity tips.
Stick to trusted retailers Shop directly from well-known retailers’ official websites or apps. Avoid clicking on unfamiliar links in emails or social media ads, which could lead to fraudulent sites designed to steal your payment information.
Look for secure connections Before entering payment details, check that the website address begins with https:// and displays a padlock icon. This indicates the site uses encryption to protect your data.
Use strong, unique passwords Create complex passwords for your shopping accounts and avoid reusing them across multiple sites. Consider using a password manager to keep track of them securely.
Enable multi-factor authentication Whenever possible, add an extra layer of security by enabling two-factor authentication( 2FA). This ensures that even if your password is compromised, attackers can’ t easily access your account.
Pay safely Use credit cards or secure payment platforms( like PayPal or Apple Pay) instead of debit cards. Credit cards often offer better fraud protection and limit your liability if unauthorized charges occur.
Watch out for phishing emails Scammers send fake“ order confirmation” or“ delivery problem” emails during the holidays. Don’ t click suspicious links; go directly to the retailer’ s site to verify your order status.
Track packages carefully Use official carrier apps or websites to track deliveries. Be cautious of text messages or emails with tracking links that don’ t match your purchase.
Keep devices updated Install the latest software updates on your phone, tablet and computer. Updates often include important security patches that protect against new threats.
Teach family members Remind children, teens and older relatives about safe online shopping practices. Scammers often target those less familiar with digital security.
Monitor your accounts Regularly check your bank and credit card statements for unusual activity. Report suspicious charges immediately to your financial institution.
Holiday shopping should be joyful, not risky. By following these tips, Florida residents can enjoy seasonal deals while keeping their personal information safe.
For more online safety resources, visit www. ready. gov / cybersecurity.
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