Holiday shopping tips for online shoppers

Crime Prev.WEBIt’s true that shopping online can save a lot of time and trouble but online shopping comes with a new set of hazards. Here are some tips from the Ramona Sheriff’s Station to make it safer when using your laptop or smartphone to find those gifts:

When using your computer:

•Update your browser and your antivirus and malware protection software.

•Don’t click unknown links in your email.

•Shop at home and on a secured network.

•Password-protect your WiFi and use a firewall.

•Shop only on encrypted sites, which begin with “https.”

•Save or print all payment confirmations.

•Use your credit card, not your debit card.

•Monitor your bank statements for unauthorized transactions.

•Change your passwords frequently. Use at least eight characters and a combination of numbers, letters and symbols.

When using your “smart” phone or devices:

•Lock your smartphones and tablets by utilizing the password or code feature to prevent thieves from stealing and using them to make purchases.

•Only download apps from a trusted app store or online platform such as Amazon, iTunes and Google Plan.

•Use a security app to protect your device against malicious apps and malware.

Keep the holidays and all you purchases safe. Remember to lock your doors and windows and to report any suspicious activity to your Ramona Sheriff’s Station at 760-789-1200.

For questions or more information, contact Crime Prevention Specialist Barbara Wallace at 760-738-2425.