8 Ways for a Secure Online Shopping

1. Run virus & spyware scans: Always perform routine virus and spyware checks as these bugs may copy your credit card numbers. They make your computers prone all sorts of online frauds. Do not install any spyware scanners that automatically appear while browsing; telling your PC is fully infested. Anti root-kit protection also allows your password protection. There are some online virus scanners.Virustotal can scan with 35 antivirus scanners once you upload a file. Also check your outdated programs which make your computer prone for infections, Secunia may be useful software.
2. Shop on affiliated sites: Always perform online shopping on those sites accredited to standard and security agencies like BBB (Better Business Bureau), Buysafe, Verisign etc. Adding to this the logos should be clickable. If not confirm it’s not a trusted source.
3. Review return and exchange policy: Before buying an object, review the return and exchange policy. Some sites like apple do not offer any returns.
4. Avoid debit cards: Your account may be overdrawn even before you may get time to cancel.
5. Use credit cards instead: These are the most security risk free way of online shopping. You are entirely protected from any frauds or account overdraws. American Express, Visa and Mastercard have a zero liability policy. You do not have to pay anything for unauthorized transactions if you notify the financial institutions promptly. It’s better to signup for their password challenge programs wherein you are asked a password for each online transaction you are coming across. For more information check their websites Mastercard, Visa.
6. Paypal is even better: With paypal, you do not have to enter your credit card number anywhere and you will be freed from typing your details each time. It also offers a wide range of deals. Here is the list of shops enrolled with paypal.
7. Do not open promo emails: Most of those emails which get into your spam folder or even in the inbox which offers you unbelievable offers are better deleted. Also promos of any shopping stuff for which you have not registered should also be taken with precaution. These may open your sites for virus and spywares. Do not download any softwares that come along through an email.
8. Do not type in PINs: Do not type in your credit/debit card PINs anywhere. Also do not type in your addresses in unauthorized sites. Do not follow any links to shopping that appears as pop up windows while browsing.

Hope this would be enough for now. But this has to be constantly updated with spammers and hackers finding new and better ways to hack your accounts. Please send in your comments too. If you liked this blogpost please do click any of the icons below.