Protect Yourself When Shopping Online
Online shopping has become a common practice for many, but with convenience come new threats. Cyber criminals constantly refine their tactics, making it crucial to know how to protect your finances and personal information.
To avoid falling victim to scammers while shopping online, follow these straightforward yet effective guidelines:
Choose cash on delivery. Scammers often offer unrealistically discounted prices on non-existent products to receive upfront payments before disappearing.
Compare prices. Malicious actors create fake websites of popular stores with "exclusive" discounts. If an offer seems too good to be true, proceed with caution.
Check links carefully. Avoid clicking on dubious links from emails or social media. Scammers create phishing sites that look like legitimate stores. Pay attention to the URL; even a small discrepancy can indicate a fake. Also, ensure the site uses the secure https protocol.
Do not enter payment details on unfamiliar websites. Before making a purchase, check the store's reputation: read reviews and look for information on independent platforms. If possible, opt for cash on delivery.
Never share your card details with third parties. Card number, CVV code, and one-time confirmation codes are keys to your funds. Bank representatives will never ask for this information.
Use a separate card for online payments. Top it up just before making a purchase to reduce the risk of losing money.
Ensure you have 3D Secure activated. This technology provides an extra verification step during online payments. The store must also support it – if the platform doesn't require payment confirmation, it could be a warning sign.
Avoid making payments through public Wi-Fi networks. Open networks can be compromised, allowing criminals to intercept sensitive data.
Check QR codes in public areas. Criminals may place QR codes leading to fake websites. Always verify the URL after scanning and avoid QR codes from unknown sources.
You can find additional payment security tips on the website of the National Bank of Ukraine.
Stay vigilant, and your online shopping experience will be safe!
Department of Cyber Police, National Police of Ukraine