Are You Shopping Online This Holiday Season?

The holiday shopping season is upon us, and many of us are searching our favorite web pages for the best deals on the items that top loved one’s wish lists. Last year, Cyber Monday was the year’s single biggest day for shopping, generating over 2 billion dollars in sales. This year, consumer experts predict an even bigger shopping day. While it’s great to be able to avoid pushy crowds and shop conveniently from your own computer, it’s important to use caution while online, because Cyber Monday is also a big day for cyber criminals.

Holiday Cyber Safety Tips

• Use a credit card rather than a debit card. It is easier to resolve issues.
• Make sure your computer has updated security software.
• Update your passwords and make sure they are strong (12345 and password are terrible passwords!).
• Do not open email advertisements from sources you do not know.
• Use only familiar websites.
• Check your statements to make sure charges are correct.
• Always log out of websites after your shopping is complete. Cookies can often keep you logged into accounts even after you close the browsing tab. Get in the habit of clicking the “log out” button.
• Try not to do your online banking on the same computer you use to shop online.
• An extremely important online shopping safety tip is to keep your personal information protected. No retailer needs your social security number or your birthday.
• The National Retail Federation predicts that 25 percent of adults will do online browsing with their smart phones to find gifts. If you use your smart phone to shop, make sure that you are only browsing safe, well-known sites.

We hope that you find some great deals this holiday season. If you purchase any valuable items make sure to contact Turner Wood & Smith Insurance so that we can make sure that your items are insured properly.