The biggest threat to your financial and personal identity isn’t found through online shopping, but rather through phishing emails from criminals posing as legitimate companies, banks, and charities. Have you ever received an email claiming that you’ve won a prize or a trip? It’s tempting to click on the link that usually accompanies this kind of email, but don’t. You could be exposing your computer to damaging viruses that can install themselves onto your computer, leaving your personal and financial information vulnerable to theft.
Another situation that can happen is that you get an email from your bank or credit union claiming an urgent need to update your account information. These emails look like the real thing and even the most computer savvy person can be tricked. It’s important to understand that your bank or credit union would never email you with a request for sensitive account information. They’d contact you directly by phone if there was any problem with your account. So, is online shopping safe? Yes, it generally is. Should you respond to questionable emails regarding too-good-to-be-true sales or offers? No way.
