Online shopping is fast and easy, but it's still "buyer beware." Providing your information online can be as safe as providing it to a store you visit in-person, as long as you follow a few simple rules:
1. Make sure your computer's security software is up-to-date.
2. Shop well-known brands or sites with which you are familiar.
3. Make sure the site uses a secure check-out – look for https in the url or for other security indicators.
4. Purchase using your credit card.
5. If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is a scam Understand how the site will use your data and the choices that are available to you regarding its use by reading the site’s privacy statement

 

HOW TO READ A PRIVACY STATEMENT?

A website's privacy policy tells you how the site collects your information and how it is used, shared and protected. When reading a privacy policy, there are questions you should think about:
1. What information is the company collecting about me?
2. Register with, and buy products or services on the Website.
3. How is information collected about me?
4. How does the site use personal information once it is collected?
5. Do I have a choice about the way information about me is used or shared? How can I make that choice?
6. Is there a place where I can ask questions about my privacy and the use of my information?

PERSONAL COMPUTER SECURITY TIPS

Passwords are the equivalent of the lock and key to your house on the Internet and help prevent misuse of your computer and other information. Choose smart passwords and protect your information using these tips:
Do..
1. Create a password using a string of at least eight letters and numbers
2. Use one password for your computer login and a different passwords for online accounts.
3. Be very careful about responding to an email, phone call, fax or letter from anyone who asks for your password(s).
4. Give your password and credit card number only via a secure connection on a web site.
5. Change your password periodically.
Dont's..
1. Use your address, birth date, phone number, common words or your pet's name.
2. Share your passwords with anyone.
3. Write down any password near your computer where someone could see it.
4. Carry your password in your purse or billfold.
5. Give your password or credit card number via email.

SECURING YOUR COMPUTER

1. Always use anti-virus software and keep the software up to date. Each month, more than 500 new viruses are discovered. Doing this will help you protect yourself when using virus software, as well as everyone else with whom you communicate.
2. Always use a firewall. A firewall is like an internal lock for information on your computer. Many computer operating systems already have firewalls installed; you just have to turn them on. You can also download and purchase other firewalls to help secure your computer.
3. Learn the risks associated with sharing files or your Internet connection.
4. Disconnect from the Internet when idle. If you aren't using it, disconnect your Internet connection. No one can attack your computer when it is not connected to the Internet. This is especially important if you have a high-speed connection.
5. Be in control of your security. Your browser has many security features, including many you may not use. Many web applications try to enhance your browsing experience by enabling different types of functionality, which may leave you vulnerable to cyber-attacks.
6. Use caution when opening email attachments. Email is simple, popular and convenient – all of which makes it the perfect tool for cyber-attacks. According to the Anti-Phishing Working Group, in 2016 the total of reported phishing attacks was more than 1 million.