Central Bank VP of Information Technology, Dan Jones, offers tips for keeping your money and information safe while shopping online.

The popularity of online shopping has grown steadily over the last few years, which has made it a target for criminal activity. A common question from Central Bank customers is, “How can I stay safe when making online purchases?” Here are some ideas:

• Make sure the website you are purchasing from is legitimate. If you are not making a purchase from a well-known site, or you have not purchased from the website before, do some research to make sure it is authentic. Suspicious of an online retailer? Check with the Better Business Bureau or the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center.
• Assure the device you are using to make purchases has the latest security updates and patches.
• Use a safe method of payment. Central Bank credit and debit cards are much safer than sending cash or using money-wiring services.
• Use different passwords for each online website and keep them in a secure location. You will feel safer if each website account has a unique username and password.
• Try not to use public Wi-Fi when making purchases. There are many ways a smart phone or tablet can be compromised when connected to unknown Wi-Fi sources. 
• Keep good records of online purchases.
• Use Online Banking to check account activity on a regular basis.
• Be wary of emails. Fraudsters often use links in emails and malicious attachments to compromise a user’s computer or mobile device.
• Report suspected fraudulent activity to Central Bank as soon as it is identified. If the activity is confirmed as fraudulent, the Internet Crime Complaint Center (www.ic3.gov) should also be notified.

Summary: We take certain precautions or practice certain rituals when shopping (asking a friend for a referral, never leaving our purse out in plain sight, etc.). What do we do when shopping online to maintain security and create an enjoyable experience? Central Bank Bloglines tips for safe, secure and happy online experiences.