Cyber Monday is an American concept that may have eluded most British citizens and which refers to the first Monday after Thanksgiving in America. It is the busiest online shopping day of the year and provides ample opportunity for sophisticated cyber thieves to steal everything from money to consumer identities. Cyber theft is a growing threat, so it is crucial that British customers also look to safeguard themselves when buying and selling online.
Buying and selling Online this winter: Three Safety Tips
This is particularly true with high value items such as cars, so consider the following steps when buying or selling a vehicle online:
- Use Sound Resources and Adopt a Cautious mindset: While the majority of us operate or own a license to some form of anti-virus software when operating online, this represents only half of the battle when attempting to safeguard our sensitive information. So in addition to securing a reputable and established piece of anti-virus software, it is also crucial to adopt a cautious mindset and take great care when making online purchases. So refrain from keeping credit card details stored on your computer’s hard drive or network, and ensure that any financial accounts or sensitive files are encrypted and password-protected. When browsing cars and interacting with potential buyers or vendors, you should use utilise reliable resources such as online platforms like Exchange & Mart to guarantee your safety.
- Consider the Threat Posed by Websites and Malware: Some anti-virus software is more effective than others, and this is often dictated by its bottom line cost. With this in mind, you may need to consider additional security measures if your software begins to underperform or becomes vulnerable to sophisticated malware attacks. White-listing is an extremely popular online security measure, for example, and one which only allows you to visit certified websites and resources that are accredited with being safe. This can provide a critical back-up to your existing anti-virus program and optimise its importance when completing a high-ticket transaction for a vehicle.
- Beware of Using External Servers: With the rising popularity of smartphones, consumers are becoming used to shopping online in a range of alternative locations. While this is extremely convenient for shoppers, it can provide a security risk when using external Wi-Fi or servers. This is also an issue when using Internet cafés or libraries, so it is important to ensure that your online connection is reputable before entering sensitive data. You must also take care to log out of any personal accounts after shopping remotely while outside of the home, as otherwise individuals can easily access your details and steal your hardearned money.
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