We've all encountered those websites and apps that offer seemingly incredible deals at bargain prices. However, not all of them are trustworthy. How do you navigate the world of online shopping while keeping yourself protected from potential threats?
Understanding the risks posed by these applications and marketplaces is the first step to safeguarding yourself. This article aims to initiate critical analysis of the websites you use. While it won't cover every aspect, future articles will delve deeper into ways to enhance your online safety.
Identifying Risks
Poor Site Security: Websites or applications with lax security practices can jeopardize your personal information. When you provide details like your name, address, and phone number, you don't want them falling into the wrong hands. Weak security standards may also result in the compromise of your email and password, particularly if you reuse passwords across platforms.
The screenshot above is an example of a site that should be treat with caution or avoided altogether as the connection is not secure, this means data can be stolen very easily by malicious actors.
Inadequate Payment Security: Online retailers should adhere to security standards like PCI-DSS (Payment Card Industry - Data Security Standard) to ensure the proper handling of payment card information. While some utilize secure payment services like PayPal or Afterpay, others may attempt to process card information directly. Failure to comply with PCI-DSS standards puts your payment data at risk of fraudulent use.
Suspicious/Malicious Products: Beware of deals that seem too good to be true, like a 10TB USB thumb drive for $10. Such products may be deceptive, containing malware or posing fire hazards. Exercise caution when encountering unbelievably low prices, as they often signal fraudulent sales.
The above screenshot is a google result for a 2TB USB drive, you can immediately see that a 2TB USB drive for $1.65 is quite suspicious and likely to be fraudulent.
Protective Measures
To mitigate these risks, consider the following practices:
Use a Separate Email Account: Create a dedicated email account solely for online shopping, separate from accounts used for banking or sensitive activities.
Unique Passwords for Each Site: Utilize a password manager to generate and store distinct passwords for each website or app, minimizing the impact of a security breach.
Consider a Separate Bank Card: Open a separate bank account or obtain a dedicated card for online transactions, reducing the potential impact of card details being compromised.
Opt for Secure Payment Services: Whenever possible, use secure payment services like PayPal to add an extra layer of protection against online fraud.
Consider Alternate Delivery Addresses: Have parcels delivered to a work address or PO box when feasible, as they may be less susceptible to online scams.
Conduct Safety Checks on Purchased Items: Prioritize electrical and security safety checks, particularly for items used for extended periods or overnight.
Conclusion
In a world where online scams abound, protecting your financial information and personal details is paramount. While corporations face similar threats, this article focuses on individual security. Stay tuned for future articles covering additional risks and specific safety measures to keep yourself secure online.
Remember, vigilance and informed decision-making are key to staying safe in the digital age. Subscribe or check back for more insights on safeguarding your online experience.
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