November 30th 2015
With indciations that online Black Friday sales in the UK reached the predicted £1.07 billion, the pre-Christmas shopping frenzy continues today with Cyber Monday, when some £943 million is expected to be spent online, according to experts at IMRG (Interactive Media in Retail Group) and Experian.
For information and advice about using auction sites safely, click here
Spending today is expected to soar by 31% over last year as retailers continue to tempt you with 'unbeatable' details.
However, this is one of the favourite times of the year for cybercriminals. They are well aware of the manic burst of pre-Christmas spending that takes place, and also the fact that many people drop their guard, so focused are they on getting ready for the festive season and saving some money.
Please read and take on board our top tips for safe buying on the internet:
Top tips for safe online shopping
1. Use only reputable shopping sites which you know, or come recommended.
2. Remember that paying by credit card offers greater protection than with other methods.
3. Double check all details of your purchase before confirming payment.
4. Do not act on or reply to unsolicited emails from companies you don’t recognise, don’t click on links or open attachments in such emails.
5. Before entering payment card details on a website, ensure that the page is secure by checking that there is a padlock symbol in the browser window frame, the web address begins with ‘https://’ and the address bar or the name of the site owner turns green.
6. Do not make payment for goods when using an unsecured Wi-Fi connection, including those in public places like cafes, bars and hotel rooms.
7. Choose strong passwords and keep them to yourself.
8. Don’t pay a company or individual not personally known to you by bank transfer, as if it’s a fraud, the bank will not refund your money.
9. Always log out of shopping websites when you have completed your payment.
10. Keep receipts, and check credit card and bank statements
11. Always have effective and updated internet security software loaded and switched on.
12. Make sure new phones, tablets and other connected devices that you buy for yourself or as gifts, are protected by PIN, internet security software and if for children, parental controls.
If you do become a victim of fraud, report it to Action Fraud, the UK’s national fraud reporting centre by calling 0300 123 20 40 or by visiting www.actionfraud.police.uk