The Diwali season brings great deals but also an increase in online scams. Cybercriminals often seize this opportunity to exploit eager shoppers. Here are some unconventional yet effective cybersecurity strategies to help you keep your Diwali shopping safe:
- Avoid Storing Card Details While it's tempting to store card information for convenience, it poses risks. Recent breaches, such as the BigBasket incident in 2020, have shown how stored customer data can be exposed. To reduce this risk, enter your card details manually with each transaction. A small hassle now can prevent major issues later.
- Watch Out for Fake Apps and Suspicious Extensions During peak shopping times, cybercriminals release fake apps and harmful browser extensions to capture payment information. For example, in 2018, over 150 counterfeit shopping apps were identified on Google Play. Stick to downloading apps from verified sources like Google Play and the App Store, and check user reviews. Also, avoid browser extensions offering “exclusive discounts,” as many carry spyware that could monitor your activity.
- Disable Browser Auto-Complete Auto-complete can save time, but it also has risks. A study by Princeton University in 2022 highlighted privacy issues, showing that browsers might auto-fill hidden fields on malicious sites. Turning off auto-complete for financial details helps you avoid unintended data sharing with risky sites.
- Check Return and Refund Policies Thoroughly Fake websites often have vague or inconsistent refund policies to ensnare shoppers. Before you purchase, verify that the site's policy aligns with standard practices. Trusted platforms like Amazon and Flipkart provide clear, reliable policies, while lesser-known sites without proper details may be unsafe.
- Use Virtual Credit Card Numbers for Extra Security Virtual credit cards let you generate temporary numbers for each transaction, keeping your actual card details safe if compromised. Indian banks like ICICI and HDFC offer virtual card services where you can set spending limits for added security, especially when shopping on unfamiliar sites.
- Create a Shopping-Only Email Account By using a separate email solely for shopping, you can isolate your shopping communications from your main account. This separation can help you manage any phishing or spam emails more effectively, protecting your personal email account from shopping-related risks.
- Examine Site Design and Language for Red Flags Cybercriminals attempt to replicate well-known e-commerce sites, but fake sites often contain small errors. Pay attention to details such as spelling mistakes, color mismatches, or logo inconsistencies. For example, a recent scam targeting Flipkart users included minor mistakes that could have signaled something was off. Comparing with the original website can help you detect these discrepancies.
- Be Wary of “Too-Good-To-Be-True” Deals Diwali brings a flood of enticing offers, but scams often appear as “Diwali Bonanza” or “Flash Sales” with unrealistic discounts. In 2021, a WhatsApp scam circulated with false promises of discounted electronics. A quick online search on the legitimacy of deals or unfamiliar websites can often reveal if they’re part of a scam.
By following these unconventional but practical tips, you can protect yourself and your family during this festive season. Remember to stay vigilant and enjoy a safe online shopping experience. As part of Cybersecurity Awareness Month, stay informed and follow Hacktify on social media for more cybers
