But, although online shopping is a normal activity for many people, studies show that many still decline to make purchases on the internet. This is largely due to the fact that customers do not feel safe when shopping using the internet. Here are some options for those that like to shop and would like to shop online as well. It really comes down to the right kind of Website security.

Familiarize yourself with the websites you’re shopping on When shopping online, be as selective as you are when you shop offline. Be sure to know the website you’re shopping on is operated and managed by a trustworthy company. If you are visiting a website you haven’t ever been to before, confirm their phone number and physical business address. Find out what the business does with regard to when something needs to be exchanged or returned. Check out the site’s privacy policy and guarantee. Look for trust marks or trust seals. Internet businesses that a third party has verified may display trust marks on their webpages to prove that they’re current and up to date with web site security.

Install anti-virus software, anti-spyware software, and a firewall on your computer Protect yourself from computer viruses and Trojan horses that can take information off of your computer. Be sure you select a genuine business to download or purchase the software from and keep your software updated. You should also consider implementing the software’s highest level of security that still gives the functionality you need.

Take advantage of the web site’s security features Layers of security are added to your transaction if passwords and other features, like challenge questions, are used the right way. Read the web site and privacy policy Before offering financial or personal information online, it’s important that you look into the privacy policy. Be sure you know exactly how your sensitive information will be used and stored, and that it is both legal and secure. Check your statements often Keep a good record of all purchases and so they can be compared to your bank statements. If discrepancies are found, report them immediately.

Use a credit card There are laws in place that limit consumer liability for fraudulent credit card charges. Protection may not be as high with a debit card. Don’t answer e-mails petitioning for sensitive information Computer hackers may attempt to take private information by trying to look like a legitimate company and asking for confirmation on account numbers and sign in information. You should know that an actual business will not make a request for information like that in an email.

Ensure encryption is being used A lot of websites encrypt information using an SSL or Secure Sockets Layer. A website that is using an SSL will have a URL that begins with https, instead of http. There should also be a padlock icon on each page.

These are just a few tips to help you keep safe when you shop online. It is critical that each of them are taken seriously when it comes to your own website security.

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