Online Holiday Shopping Safety Tips
Like many aspects of modern life, planning and booking a holiday is something most of us now do online.
Shop on Trusted Websites
Over 80% of holiday bookings are made via the internet, matching trends in e-commerce and banking. However, like any kind of online activity, it can allow cybercriminals to exploit unsuspecting victims. Falling for a scam can turn your dream trip into a disaster. But there are things you can look out for and put in place to ensure you stay safe.
Vigilance is key whether you're securing flights and accommodation or adding to your holiday wardrobe. For example, look for the padlock symbol in the address bar and make sure the URL starts with 'https://'. These signs indicate a secure connection. Websites for travel agencies, airlines, and hotel chains should have these measures in place.
You can also check reviews before parting with any money. If a deal seems too good to be true, it probably is. Trust your instincts and avoid obscure pages offering unbelievably cheap prices.
Moreover, bargain fast-fashion retailers are more popular than ever. Asking yourself "Is Temu safe?" can be a good starting point. Just a slight pause to double-check that the site you're on is legit – as Temu is! – can help.
Using Strong and Unique Passwords
You may have to register for several new websites when shopping for a holiday. Strong, unique passwords are your first line of defence against cybercriminals. Just don’t forget that each account should have a different password. This step stops a breach on one website from compromising all your other accounts.
Use a combination of upper and lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols to create ones that are difficult to guess. Also, avoid using personal information like your birthday or pet's name. If you’d like to improve your online safety even more, a password manager can help you generate and store strong passwords securely.
Avoid Paying When on Public Wi-Fi
Public Wi-Fi hotspots are convenient, but they often lack adequate security. In simple terms, cybercriminals can more easily intercept data transmitted over public Wi-Fi, including your payment information. Avoid making payments while using unsecured networks.
If you must use public Wi-Fi, a virtual private network (VPN) encrypts your internet traffic and protects your data from prying eyes. The encryption creates a secure 'tunnel' between your device and the website, shutting others out.
Beware of Phishing Scams
Phishing scams try to trick you into revealing personal information like your login credentials or bank details. Be wary of emails, text messages, or social media posts that offer amazing deals or claim there's a problem with your booking. These messages often contain links to spoof sites that mimic legitimate travel companies.
Never click on links from unknown senders and always access websites directly by typing the address into your browser. If you receive a suspicious email or message that appears to be from a travel company, contact them directly to verify its authenticity.
Book Your Break with Confidence
Booking your holiday over the internet should be an enjoyable experience, not a stressful one. Online security skills are vital in modern life. Applying them when arranging your getaway will help you count down the days to your trip worry-free.
Content Provided | Images Unsplash
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