Categories: Security

Avoid Being Hacked When Shopping Online

There are a range of benefits to shopping online: less hassle, no waiting in lines, no carrying hefty bags around the mall, and no fighting the crowds. Even though the convenience is beneficial, remember that shopping online can put you at greater risk of being hacked. If you’re searching for deals or receiving them via email or SMS, always turn on dfndr security’s anti-hacking feature to protect yourself from phishing attacks and malicious websites:

With anti-hacking turned on, you can shop with some assurance, since our phishing detection is so advanced you’ll be alerted of malicious links even before you click on them. Regardless, these easy tips will keep you more protected from hackers that are waiting to steal your banking information.

Avoid Using a Debit Card
When you’re using a debit card rather than a credit card to shop online, it can put you at an increased risk of your information being hacked and fraudulently used. Credit cards are insured against fraudulent charges, making them the safer option, whereas debit cards do not have that advantage.

Use Different Passwords
Using a myriad of passwords for all of your different accounts is a great way to ensure that you’re not hacked. Never use the same password more than once. If you do, it allows hackers to access all of your accounts if they crack one. Also, avoid using “common” passwords such as the word “password” or popular number or letter sequences.

Use Two-Factor Authentication
Another precaution to take against hackers is to strengthen your email accounts with two-factor authentication. This is like having a second password on your account that adds an extra layer of security, which is particularly important when you know you’re going to be doing an abundance of online shopping. This makes it difficult for hackers to access your account, even if they successfully bypass or guess your first security key.

Turn Off Bluetooth and Wi-Fi in Stores
This may seem like an unexpected tip, but turning off Bluetooth and Wi-Fi when you’re in a store can stop stores from tracking you and your information while you’re there, which they keep on file to use in the future. This unauthorized network access can be put to a halt by simply turning off these phone features as you shop with some peace of mind.

PSafe Newsroom

The dfndr blog is an informative channel that presents exclusive content on security and privacy in the mobile and business world, with tips to keep users protected. Populated by a select group of expert reporters, the channel has a partnership with dfndr lab's security team. Together they bring you, first-notice news about attacks, scams, internet vulnerabilities, malware and everything affecting cybersecurity.