3 ideas for safer online shopping

Life is busy. 

Between work demands, gym routines and family responsibilities, it can be hard to visit a store before closing time. Given today’s packed schedules, it’s no surprise online shopping has been on the rise since 2010. Three cheers for easy e-commerce, right? 

While you’re hip-hip-hooraying the convenience factor, keep these three ideas in mind to stay cybersecure while you shop ‘til you drop (or, at least, ‘til you doze off on the couch).

1. If it sounds too good to be true, it might be.

Don’t get us wrong, we love a good bargain as much as the next guy. But, it’s important to remember, not every jaw-dropping deal is legit. Sometimes a bad actor may masquerade as an obscure company with an amazing offer just to get access to your money. Which brings us to No. 2 on our list.

2. Stick with sellers you know on a Wi-Fi network you trust.

If Sally’s Shoe Shop—a store you’ve never done business with—sends you a digital advertisement saying your favorite sandals are on mega sale for $6 instead of $600, think twice before clicking that ad. Do some research first, like reading any online reviews, to help make sure everything is honest—be aware of your Wi-Fi connection while doing so. A Wi-Fi network that’s not secure can leave holes for cyberthieves to crawl through and gain access to a lot of personal information.

Popular Article: Cybersecurity best practices for businesses

3. Be smart about shelling out cash. 

Last, but not least, take steps to protect hackers from accessing your hard-earned money. Consider setting up a bank card that’s only for online purchases. Limit the amount of funds in that account to reduce the chance of a bad person stealing your entire savings. On the credit card side, many companies won’t hold you responsible for purchases made by someone who has stolen your card information. Talk to your credit card provider to make sure you understand their policies. 

After polishing up your cybershopping practices, take time to make sure your insurance policies are polished up, too. For example, options like UFG’s identity management services can connect personal insurance policyholders with experts who can help in the event of identity theft. An agent can help.

Needs tips for reviewing your insurance coverages? We have a simple solution that’s useful all year long: How to conduct a year-end insurance review in 3 steps.

Disclaimer: Subject to applicable legal requirements, United Fire & Casualty Company and its subsidiaries and affiliates (UFG Insurance) are no longer renewing or writing new personal lines coverage for current or potential policyholders in most states. To accommodate obtaining replacement coverage, we have entered into a renewal rights agreement for most of our personal lines business. Read more here.