There are several reasons why you need to shop online. The prices are very lucrative, the selection is amazing and the shopping is secure. Not to mention, the shipping is very fast and the returns are pretty much easy to realize. However, with all these benefits online shopping offers, there are still some security measures you need to observe to avoid identity theft and loss of goods. Here is what we recommend.
Use Trusted Websites
How do you know a trusted website? This is an important question you must seek answers to before you buy anything online. Check the website to see if it has pop-up ads. Most pop-ups do not take you to the e-commerce site, but rather they redirect you to spammy links developed to steal your personal information. In addition to zero pop-ups, a good website must have good reviews from past shoppers, feature a broken icon or padlock at the left top side of your browser’s URL box, have a physical address and phone numbers and accept credit cards.
Protect Your Computer
Identify thieves and cyber criminals do not just sit around waiting for you to enter your personal details online. Sometimes they send trojans and other malware to help speed things up. To avoid this, you need to protect your computer with a strong anti-virus. Use Norton Internet Security, Kaspersky, Avast or Panda Cloud Antivirus.
Use Strong Passwords
A password is like the main door to a house. If it is weak, hackers and identity thieves can gain access to your online shopping account easily. Create a password that is difficult to break. We recommend a mixture of letters, symbols and numbers. You can also create abbreviations from one or two sentences and use them as a password. The sentences must be something you can easily recall.
Use a VPN
Hackers have become so smart to an extent they can now access a computer through Wi-Fi networks and IP addresses. You can avoid this by making sure you privatize your Wi-Fi network whenever you are shopping online. Only access the internet using a virtual private network (VPN) connection. You can set a free VPN via Anchor Free Hotspot Shield or HydemyAss (HMA). Also, avoid public networks, such as those in hospitals, airports and restaurants.
Get a Good Shipment Company
If you are shopping abroad, you need to get a good shipping company to move the goods to your location. The company should have a solid reputation and a lot of experience transporting goods across the globe. Check online to see what other people say about the company or ask them to provide you with a list of past clients. If you are in the UK, we recommend you use Skypax. The company has been in business since 2009 and provides parcel forwarding and shopping concierge services across the globe.
Buying goods online is very cheap and convenient for businesses who want to maximize profits and minimize costs. However, there is need to exercise caution to be on the safer side. Use a trusted e-commerce site and secure your computer with an antivirus and strong password. Also, get a trustworthy and competent shipping company.