9 Ways to Stay Safe Shopping Online

Overview 

Online shopping is the most popular shopping method nowadays. Almost everyone is using online shopping. But online shopping scams are also becoming increasingly popular. The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) reported that in the half year of 2022 alone, the losses caused by online fraud reached a record $3.56 billion, an increase of nearly 50% over the same period last year. Therefore, how to ensure safety when you shop online has become a top priority. Next, I will introduce you to 9 ways to avoid online shopping fraud.

Contents 

1. Please shop on trusted websites

2. Beware of phishing

3. Check website encryption

4. Avoid purchasing on public WI-FI

5. Use complex passwords

6. Don't shop online in public places

7. Use a credit card instead of a debit card for shopping

8. Install security software

9. Consider mobile devices  

1. Please shop on trusted websites

In addition to some well-known shopping websites, the network is also full of unknown small shopping websites. Many websites suddenly appeared around shopping festivals like Black Friday. They often have exaggerated low prices, attracting people to buy. But in fact, you may not be able to receive the goods, or even cause more losses such as information leakage.

Our suggestion is: Don't blindly be attracted by low prices, choose a more well-known, safer and reliable website to purchase.

2. Beware of phishing

Phishing scammers can lurk secretly throughout the year. Please remain vigilant for suspicious email and SMS messages, especially around the shopping festival. For example, package information from unknown sources or incredible offers.

Our suggestion is: Please fully verify all information and try to enter the official address in the browser instead of clicking on the link in the information.

3. Check website encryption

When browsing shopping websites, please note whether the website has SSL encryption. An obvious sign is that the website's URL starts with https. Please note that the encryption of https is valid regardless of whether you use VPN or not.

Our recommendation is: Using both VPN and https as much as possible to ensure a higher level of security. If you don't already have a VPN, start with MetroVPN.

4. Avoid purchasing on public WI-FI

Public Wi-Fi, especially free Wi-Fi, typically means lower security and a higher likelihood of intrusion. Therefore, trading on public Wi-Fi is not a good idea.

Our recommendation is: Conducting transactions on private, password protected Wi-Fi. If you must conduct transactions on public Wi-Fi, please use VPN. MetroVPN is a good choice.

5. Use complex passwords

Please do not set simple passwords for online shopping accounts for convenience. This greatly increases the risk of account theft.

Our recommendation is: Using unique and complex passwords to reduce the risk of account theft.

6. Don't shop online in public places

If you use a computer for online shopping in coffee shops, airports, or other public places. Then just lurk around and pay attention to your input information, and your account risk increases.

Our suggestion is: Please make online shopping at home.

7. Use a credit card instead of a debit card for shopping

If your debit card is embezzled, the fraudster can directly obtain your bank funds. If your credit card is misappropriated, you will only be liable for up to $50 in unauthorized credit card fees under the relevant terms.

Our suggestion is: Always use credit cards for shopping.

8. Install security software

Install security software for your computer. Security software can constantly monitor your computer for intrusion. Even some software also supports network transaction security protection, which can effectively ensure the security of your transactions.

Our recommendation is: Installing security software for your computer.

9. Consider mobile devices

Buying on mobile devices such as smartphones may be a good option. All you need to do is open applications such as Amazon and Target, and select the product to purchase. Applications typically also have high security, eliminating the need to enter riskier websites.

Our suggestion is: You can use mobile devices for online shopping.