Many shoppers will be searching online for gifts this week, as today is Cyber Monday., one of the biggest online shopping. events of the year. Many retailers will extend their deals throughout the week in order to entice bargain hunters.

While shopping online is easy and convenient, it's important to protect oneself from cyber criminals who may attempt to steal information on the web. Fox News recently released a list of tips for online shoppers who want to make sure their personal information stays secure.

According to the news source, shoppers should stick to familiar sites when shopping online. If you know a company is trustworthy, then it is less likely that you will fall victim to a scam.

The news organization also urges shoppers to log on from their home, rather than using a shared or unsecured internet connection.

Remember that no online website will require your social security number in order for you to make a purchase. Additionally, it's unlikely that you will have to disclose your date of birth to an online retailer.

According to Microsoft, one way to prevent online fraud. is to use a third party payment service when shopping online.