If you own or run a small business, there’s a good chance you find yourself buying things online regularly. The odds are also good that you have heard just how risky it can be to share any of your financial details over the internet if your vendor ends up being hacked later.
There are some threats you can’t see and plan for, of course, but many of the risks associated with shopping online can be avoided. Let’s look at seven ways you can make every transaction you conduct just a little bit safer…
#1 Shop on Trusted and Known Sites
Going to unknown ecommerce destinations is a bit like walking down dark alleys in search of a good deal. It might work out for you once in a while, but it’s not a great habit to cultivate. Whenever possible, shop on trusted and known websites with good reputations and money-back guarantees you can count on.
#2 Look for Secure Connections
Always check your web browser to ensure you are on a safe and encrypted connection before entering your credit card information onto any website. That signifies that the data is being scrambled and then decoded when it’s sent, making it virtually impossible for hackers to snoop or copy your payment info.
#3 Don’t Shop on Public Networks
Public or open Wi-Fi connections are convenient, but they remove an important layer of security from your transaction. Whether you realize it or not, thieves can snoop in on communications sent through these networks even if the website you’re communicating with is encrypted. Only shop from password-protected networks you know.
#4 Set Strong and Unique Passwords
You should always use complex passwords that make use of multiple letters (lowercase and uppercase), numbers, and special symbols. These make it very difficult for hackers to employ password-cracking software that will “guess” your login credentials. And, don’t forget to use different passwords for each website you shop on. That way you will still be partially protected in the event of a data breach at the company you buy from.
#5 Use a Company Card
Whenever possible you want to make purchases – and especially large ones – using a company credit card. That’s because credit issuers typically have better buyer protection standards than other banks, meaning a credit card transaction is more secure than a debit card purchase.
#6 Keep Tight Access to Payment Info
Unless there is a very good reason for an employee or vendor to have access to company cards and payment information, you should keep these to yourself. It might be more convenient to simply have others place purchases for you, but can you really trust them to be as careful with your passwords and financial details as you would be?
#7 Ignore Those Spam Emails
Even when you receive an email offering you a great price for a product or service you really want for your company, it’s a good idea to leave unsolicited email offers alone. Many of them are connected with scams that could cost you a great deal of cash if you give into your curiosity.
Stay Safe When Shopping Online
We highly recommend you follow these seven tips the next time you have to buy something for your business over the web. While you’re at it, you might want to put them to good use when it comes to your personal shopping, too.
If you need more good tech advice, or just want to find out how you can make technology a source of strength in your business, contact the experts at Fantastic IT in Los Angeles today. We will be happy to answer any questions you might have or provide you a free quote for your managed services needs.