How To Stay Safe When Shopping Online
Since the coronavirus outbreak began in January 2020, technology has played a huge role in helping people stay connected. Online communities have helped people in isolation feel less lonely and online shopping has meant that the shielded have had access to everything they need.
However, our increased use of technology has also provided more opportunities for criminals to target the vulnerable online.
“To date, more than £5m has been lost to coronavirus-related scams and £16m has been lost to online shopping fraud since lockdown began.”
Read more about this on ageuk.org.uk
The Look Fabulous Forever team have collated our 5 top tips to help our customers protect themselves against online threats and stay secure and safe online.
Here are our top tips to keep you safe when shopping online:
1 - Always keep your computer and mobile devices up to date
If you want to shop safely online, you need to keep your browser and operating system secure. That means using the latest versions as they’re constantly being updated to keep them safe. Having the latest web browser and operating system is the best defence against malware and viruses.
Top Tip - turn on your computer's automatic updates so you receive the latest updates as and when they become available.
Follow our step-by-step instructions on how to update your operating system and browser here.
2 - Only use secure internet connections
Your at-home wireless network should always have a password and when out and about and connecting to public Wi-Fi, just be wary about what information you are sending at that time.
3 - Remember, always set original and strong passwords
The best passwords have at least eight characters, are a mix of upper and lowercase letters and include numbers and or special characters. And remember, you should never give out your personal password or log-in information.
4 - Be on the lookout for scammers
Phishing is when someone tries to trick you into giving them your personal information. They often happen in the form of fraudulent emails and websites to trick people into disclosing private information. Never click on links, open attachments or click on pop-up screens from sources you are not familiar with.
5 - Don’t share your personal information online!
Always think before you post. Scammers can use your social media profiles to look for clues as to what your passwords could be and answer those security questions you always get asked. Avoid posting information like birthdays, your mother’s maiden name, pets name and addresses etc. And always think twice before accepting friendship requests to connect with people you do not know.
