Stay Safe Online This Thanksgiving

Cyber attacks become more rampant during the hectic holidays as shoppers become less mindful of their buying habits when overwhelmed with abundant holiday offers. Users must exercise more caution when shopping online.

Here are simply, easy to remember tips re how to avoid becoming a victim:

? Always bookmark trusted shopping sites. Relying on search engine results could lead to threats that lurk in ads, including malicious sites.

? Ignore dubious offers and surveys in emails especially unrecognizable sources. Opening malicious links could lead to system infection. 

? Check site links/IPs/docs at www.VirusTotal.com before clicking.

? Do not click on any links or open any attachments from anyone - even known senders - if you are not expecting them. Be suspicious and check everything first. Or simply delete it.

? Install a security solution software to protect from attacks that could arise while shopping by blocking malicious websites. Update regularly, and schedule regular scans.

? Beware of unbelievable offers. Outrageous online ads lead users to malicious sites, phishing pages, including adware. If too good to be true, they probably are - avoid.

? Use an official online shopping app like Amazon's or the store's own app (Macy's, etc.) and consider using PayPal for more secure transactions.

? Use a credit card instead of debit card which offers users more protections if the card is compromised, and won’t impact your checking account.

? Never provide your banking or credit/debit card information over an unsecured public WiFi network.

? Avoid using IoT devices to pay (like your TV).

? Don’t use the same password for everything.

? Monitor yourself - I set my credit cards and checking accounts up to send me a text for every transaction - all the time, not just during holiday seasons or overseas travel.

? Beware of email receipts for unrecognized purchases: Phishing emails have been around since email, and they still continue to “work.”

Remember—hackers are shopping today too along with you. Stay safe, and good luck! Happy Thanksgiving!