We’ve compiled a list of tips that you can use to protect your identity when shopping online and your credit card information while banking. You can see usergorilla.com for more information.
* Do not give out your account details to anyone. If you use your account for online shopping or banking, sharing usernames, passwords or secret codes is a no-no. Unauthorized parties may gain access to your credit card information, shopping carts and banking information.
You should keep this information to your own. This is why we urge you to logout from all online accounts, such as shopping sites, email, and social networking, so that nobody can access them without your permission.
* Check out the security features before you disclose any sensitive information. This is especially important for applying online for loans, as well as filling out forms to process or complete transactions. Remember that not all websites have the same level of security, so you can be protected against hackers and other malicious software.
You should take the time to examine the URL bar and look at the padlock icon or the URLbar at the bottom of each webpage for common signs of online security.
* Avoid using public computers to transact business online. Public computers can be vulnerable to hacker attacks. These computers often have weak firewalls as well as outdated anti-virus or anti-malware software.
When shopping and banking online, we recommend you only use your personal computer.
* Keep your installed programs updated. Keep your computer’s anti-virus, spyware, and malware programs up-to-date on a regular basis. These programs serve as your first line protection against any threats to your online security.