In the last 3 years, online shopping has been on the rise, and the trend is set to continue. According to a recent report from Klarna's Shopping Pulse edition, 26% of Portuguese people shop online once a week, which is 4% more than in the last quarter of 2022.

This November brings some of the busiest shopping days of the year - Black Friday and Cyber Monday. It also brings some potential security risks, and it's important to be aware of certain practices to make your purchases safer.

What practices can you implement the next time you make an online purchase?

1. Be wary of fake websites

During Black Friday and Cyber Monday, cybercriminals create fake websites that look identical to legitimate stores to deceive consumers into thinking they are buying from a legitimate site. Typically, fake websites have some flaws, such as low-quality content. You should perform a search on search engines (like Google) to verify the legitimacy of the website.

2. Enable two-factor authentication

This tool enhances security for your account, preventing anyone from accessing and using your account, even if they have knowledge of your password.

3. Use digital wallets

Your mobile device contains encrypted account information that allows you to make transactions smoothly without entering your banking information on the website, such as making payments through PayPal.

4. Use a different email address for online purchases

By not using your personal email, you reduce the risk of cybercriminals obtaining your personal information. For example, if you use Gmail and your email is joaosilva@gmail.com, you can add a "+" at the end of your username and a name in front to differentiate the emails you register with stores, and you will still receive the emails in your inbox. It will look like this: joaosilva+store1@gmail.com, joaosilva+store2@gmail.com, and so on.

5. Don't save personal information on a website

It's common for websites to suggest saving our data, whether it's a username, password, or banking information. To protect yourself from potential cyberattacks, don't save your personal information on websites.

6. Always verify coupons or discount codes

If you receive an email with a coupon or discount code, don't click on any links. Verify and enter the codes directly on the store's website.

7. Use unique passwords for each online store

If you want to shop on different websites, use different passwords to enhance security in your purchases. Use password manager programs like Bitwarden, 1Password, or Keepass.

8. Set up notifications for your account

If you choose to be notified by your bank through messages, email, or phone, you can benefit from immediate assistance if someone is accessing your personal account. It's a way to alert you to suspicious activities and monitor your bank card transactions.

9. Stay informed

It's important to recognize potential types of cyberattacks, such as phishing, fake emails, and deceptive offers, to protect yourself and avoid them.

10. Generate virtual credit cards

If you opt to make purchases with a credit card, the best option is to generate virtual credit cards, preferably with spending limits for each purchase.

 

Always remember to take security measures when shopping online.