We don't have the time and patience to tolerate any form of fraudulent nonsense on this platform. Fraud is probably as old as finance, and in the hyper-digital world of modern finance, this well-established enemy is equally entrenched. But we are equal to the task of ridding our platform off these useless bad actors. It's important to take steps to protect yourself when shopping online and we take proactive steps to protect our customers and clients.

Anything connected to the Internet, including mobile devices like smartphones and tablets need to be protected – especially during heavy use periods, like the holidays. Scammers and cybercriminals can target shoppers as well. Everyone should be on alert for emails that might get us to act quickly and click through links and open attachments. Be wary of emails about problems with your credit cards or an account or the status of online order.

The bad guys know we are price sensitive when shopping online. Exercise caution when seeing and ad offer where the discount is way below normal. Being a safe and secure shopper starts with STOP. THINK. CONNECT.: Take security precautions, think about the consequences of your actions online and enjoy the conveniences of technology with peace of mind while you shop online. Remember these tips during all online purchases.

 

Online Shopping Tips

• Conduct research: When using a new website for purchases, read reviews and see if other consumers have had a positive or negative experience with the site.

• When in doubt, throw it out: Links in emails, posts and texts are often the ways cybercriminals try to steal your information or infect your devices.

• Personal information is like money: value it and protect it: When making a purchase online, be alert to the kinds of information being collected to complete the transaction. Make sure you think it is necessary for the vendor to request that information. Remember, you only need to fill out required fields at checkout.

• Use safe payment options: Credit cards are generally the safest option because they allow buyers to seek a credit from the issuer if the product isn’t delivered or isn’t what was ordered. Don’t be disappointed: Read return and other polices so you know what to expect if the purchase doesn’t go as planned.

• Protect your $$: When shopping, check to be sure the site is security enabled. Look for web addresses with https:// indicating extra measures to help secure your information.

 

ID Theft & Fraud