Identity Theft: Shop Securely

Online shopping is convenient but can also pose hazards for unwary buyers. While electronic exchange of funds makes buying online easier it is important to watch for signs of a secure site. Secure sites provide encryption of data so that others can’t view it or intercept it. This encryption is called SSL (Secure Socket Layers).

Look for security symbols such as a closed padlock on the bottom of your browser window and URLs that start with https instead of http. Encryption that hides your sensitive information (like passwords, credit card numbers and other personal data) by displaying it as dots rather than the actual numbers or letters is another safety feature.

Check the Privacy Policy and only deal with reputable merchants. Check with the Better Business Bureau if you’re unsure. You may also consider third party payment processors (such as Paypal and ClickBank) which prevent the merchant from obtaining any financial information directly. Check the security status and privacy policies of any third party processor before making a transaction.

Sharing Computers or Using Laptops

If you are sending personal information on a public or shared computer you must log out of the browser before ending your session. If you don’t log out another person may be able to use the back button on the browser to obtain your information. Empty cookies so other users will not be given your information if they access the same site.

Storing personal information on personal computers (especially laptops) can be dangerous if the computer is stolen or hacked (illegally accessed). Don’t save sensitive passwords in programs that can auto-fill forms.

Online Forums and Chat Rooms

You may find that in the excitement of meeting new people and developing personal relationships in online forums and chat rooms you to forget the dangers of providing too much information.What is being done to protect your privacy? Get free adware download and protect your online privacy.

In these social or business gatherings you may foster friendships within the group but it is important to remember that these areas are available to the public and individuals who are not making their presence known can still be ‘lurking’ on the forums and searching for personal pieces of information that are inadvertently expressed.

You never really know who you are talking to so it is wise to make it a habit to never reveal personal information such as your telephone number or address to these public groups.What can you do to prevent identity theft? Get free adware download at http://www.pc-tool.info/

Comments? Questions? Email Here

© HowtoAdvice.com

How to Advice .com