The transition from credit card purchases at local stores to one-click online shopping has encouraged the rise of cyber attacks. The rewards of this new mode of shopping are endless, but it puts your cyber security at risk leading to identity theft or credit card fraud unless the company has a solid Cyber security Protection System and has a strong penetration tests score.
Why is Cybersecurity Important
You cannot overlook the importance of a Cybersecurity Protection System, and this is because
- Hackers are here to stay, and they are getting more sophisticated in penetrating company cybersecurity firewalls
- More companies are dealing with cyberattacks on a regular basis, and confidential consumer and client information is at the mercy of the hackers. More so, corporations are withholding the IT security issues until they have evidence of the malicious activity
- Most personal information is tied to the retail data
In this light, you must protect from cyberattacks, and since you cannot take penetration tests of a random retail sites, we have compiled five actionable tips for cybersecurity protection.
Monitor Your Credit Card Statements on a Weekly Basis
95% of online shoppers check their credit card statements at least once a month, but experts say that it might be too late to identify any credit card fraud. More so, companies hide the fact that they have IT security issues from the public. It is now easier to review your credit card statements online, and when you see any red flags, crosscheck it with your authorized payments, and if not contact your credit card company asap.
Sign for Real-Time Payment Alerts
Before you sign up for a credit card, ensure that the company or bank has a robust Cybersecurity Protection System in place. The system will allow them to contact you before they process any payments. More so, visit the company or bank or their websites and set a maximum limit on your credit/debit card. The Cybersecurity Protection System will flag the payments above the set limit, and your bank or company will contact you via email, text, or phone call to authorize the payment.
Protect Your Private Information
There is a constant cybersecurity threat to your personal information whether you are using your phone or computer, and you will learn why cybersecurity is important when you go for years without any IT security issues. When doing online shopping, ensure that the website has a closed lock symbol at the bottom right section of the screen or it has an ‘https’ address.
Change Passwords Routinely
Having obvious passwords lowers your cyber security protection, and at least 50% of internet users use weak passwords such as initials and birthday. The risk with birthdays or social security numbers is that once a cyber criminal acquires it, they get access to all your personal information. Use a combination of numbers, letters, and special characters that have no direct connection to you and so protect from cyber attacks.
Subscribe For Cybersecurity Protection Services
Hackers have little concern for set cyber security laws and are relentless in infecting your devices with malware. Ingenious entrepreneurs are now offering cyber security protection services to protect against identity theft. They will even do penetration tests on your network’s firewall. They protect from cyber attacks and you can choose to pay for the service after the 12 months.
In conclusion, until online retail companies upgrade their cyber security protection, use the time-tested tips above to protect from cyber attacks. However, only shop on sites that you are sure they have passed the penetration test and have no IT security issues, but remember, cash is accepted everywhere without the need for cyber security.