Cyber Monday: Keeping your personal information safe

Millions of Americans will log onto the Web to do some Cyber Monday shopping today, working to get the best bang for their buck. But with all of that online shopping, comes a major security risk.

So ABC 57 has a few safety tips that can help keep you safe.

First, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security urges you to opt for a secure wireless network that is password protected rather than free or public wi-fi.

They also encourage using a credit card because the laws that limit your liability for fraudulent charges may not have the same level of protection for your debit card.

Security officials say to be sure to keep all of your receipts and records of your order, and check your statements to make sure everything lines up.

Finally, don't believe everything you see, there are deals that are too good to be true.

Experts say before you buy that tablet for $50, shop only on the websites of trusted retailers and avoid shopping through pop-up ads or unfamiliar websites.


Based on last year's numbers, consumer experts say hundreds of millions of shoppers are expected to go online to shop today.

Michael Kaiser with the National Cybersecurity Alliance says Cyber Monday is also one of the biggest days of the year for scammers.

"They know it's cyber Monday. They know that people are out there shopping and they're going to do what they can to try to lure you in," Kaiser said.
 
The Better Business Bureau also suggests you have the most recent updates installed for spam filters, anti-virus and a secure firewall.

Another tip, if you are using your smart phone in public to shop, opt for using your cellular data to make purchases rather than public wi-fi.