Shopping online has never been more popular. Whether you’re buying groceries, booking a holiday or treating yourself to something new, it’s often quicker and more convenient than visiting the shops.
Unfortunately, scammers know this too. Fake websites, phishing emails and online fraud are becoming increasingly common.
The good news is that staying safe online doesn’t have to be difficult. A few simple habits can make a big difference.
1. Shop with Retailers You Know
Well-known retailers usually have established security measures and customer support if something goes wrong.
If you’re buying from a company you’ve never heard of, spend a few minutes checking reviews and making sure they’re genuine.
2. Check the Website Address
Before entering payment details, look carefully at the website address.
Scammers often create websites with names that look almost identical to genuine companies.
Make sure the address is correct and begins with https://. While this doesn’t guarantee a website is genuine, it’s a good starting point.
3. Be Careful with Links in Emails and Text Messages
Many scams begin with an email or text claiming there’s a special offer, a missed delivery or a problem with your account.
Rather than clicking the link, visit the retailer’s website yourself by typing the address into your browser.
4. Use a Credit Card Where Possible
Credit cards often provide additional consumer protection for eligible purchases.
Check with your card provider to understand what protection is available.
5. Use Strong Passwords
If you shop online regularly, avoid using the same password on every website.
If one account becomes compromised, criminals could try the same password elsewhere.
Password managers can help you create and store strong, unique passwords.
6. Turn On Two-Factor Authentication
If your shopping account offers Two-Factor Authentication (2FA), enable it.
It provides an extra layer of security if someone discovers your password.
7. Keep Your Devices Updated
Windows, macOS, phones and tablets regularly receive security updates.
Installing these updates helps protect you against newly discovered vulnerabilities.
8. Avoid Public Wi-Fi for Sensitive Purchases
If possible, avoid making important purchases while connected to public Wi-Fi networks in cafés, hotels or airports.
If you need to shop while away from home, using your mobile data connection is often the safer option.
9. Watch Out for Prices That Seem Too Good to Be True
If a brand-new product is advertised at a fraction of the normal price, take extra care.
Scammers often rely on unbelievable bargains to encourage people to act quickly.
10. Trust Your Instincts
If a website feels rushed, contains spelling mistakes, asks for unusual payment methods or simply doesn’t feel right, stop and think before continuing.
It’s always better to spend a few extra minutes checking than dealing with fraud later.
What Should I Do If I Think I’ve Been Scammed?
- Contact your bank or card provider immediately.
- Change your passwords.
- Run a security scan on your computer.
- Monitor your accounts for unusual activity.
- Seek professional advice if you’re unsure what has happened.
Need Help Staying Safe Online?
If you’re unsure whether a website is genuine, have clicked a suspicious link or think your computer may have been compromised, Barwell Computer Repair can help.
We provide friendly, local support with computer security, scam advice, malware removal and general technology support, helping you stay safe while enjoying everything the internet has to offer.
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