Safer holiday shopping with Surface laptops

As holidays approach, many turn to their Microsoft Surface to shop online. With the convenience of online shopping comes the risk of cyber threats. Designed for security, Surface delivers robust security with built-in protection designed to take the worry and leave behind the peace of mind. Learn more about the safety features of Surface laptops, along with additional tips for safer online shopping experiences.

A guardian for the holidays

One of the most effective built-in tools that safeguards your Surface laptop is Microsoft Defender. Think of it as a personal guardian built right into your Surface laptop. With features like real-time protection, firewall, and cloud-based intelligence, Microsoft Defender is always on guard against viruses, malware, and other online threats. Your Surface laptop stays safer and more secure while you enjoy shopping online for the holidays.

Core security and more

The features of Microsoft Defender that help ensure your holiday shopping is safer and more secure include:

Core security:

• Comprehensive protection: Safeguards against a wide range of threats.
• Real-time protection: Continuously scans for and removes malware.
• Firewall: Controls network traffic, preventing unauthorized access.
• Cloud protection: Leverages cloud-based intelligence for enhanced threat detection.
• Network protection: Protects against network-based threats like ransomware.
• Behavior monitoring: Detects suspicious activity on your laptop.
• Exploit protection: Helps prevent attacks that exploit vulnerabilities.
• Device guard: Enforces hardware-based security measures.
• File screening: Scans files for malware before they're opened.
• Automatic updates: Ensures you have the latest security definitions.

More than security:

• Ease of use: Requires minimal configuration.
• Integration with Microsoft Ecosystem: Seamlessly integrates with other Microsoft products.
• Cost-effective: Offers robust security at a competitive price.

Rely on Microsoft Edge to help

Microsoft Edge helps ensure safer online shopping experiences during the holidays. With a suite of powerful security features, you can depend on Microsoft Edge to keep your sensitive financial information protected. The tools and features available with Microsoft Edge that help provide protection include:

• Microsoft Defender SmartScreen: Blocks websites that have been flagged by reputable sources to be unsafe. If you come across a suspicious website, you can also report it to Microsoft Edge.
• Password Monitor: Checks your saved passwords when you use them against all-too-common data breaches and will alert you in case your password has been revealed. Most data breaches happen through online shopping websites, so ensuring that your passwords can’t be accessed by strangers is a top priority in Microsoft Edge.
• Password generator: In case you do need to change your password, the built-in Microsoft Edge password generator can suggest a super-secure password that will meet all password requirements.

Additionally, Microsoft Edge and its built-in shopping tools—such as digital coupons and Microsoft Rewards—can direct you towards legitimate retailers and trustworthy deals when you shop online.

7 steps for online shopping

Ready to find that perfect holiday gift and purchase it safely online? Follow these steps:

1. Enable Microsoft Defender: Ensure real-time protection, firewall, and cloud protection are activated in the Windows Security app.
2. Update your laptop: Keep your Surface laptop running the latest version of Windows for optimal security and performance.
3. Configure network protection: Enable network protection to guard against network-based attacks.
4. Monitor laptop activity: Regularly check the "Security at a glance" dashboard for alerts and recommendations.
5. Control applications: Restrict untrusted applications to prevent potential threats.
6. Enable Exploit Protection: Safeguard your laptop against attacks that exploit software vulnerabilities.
7. Regularly scan: Perform regular scans with Microsoft Defender to detect and remove malware.

Defender and best practices offer more security

While Microsoft Defender provides a strong foundation for your laptop's security, additional best practices provide even more security:

• Strong passwords: Use unique, complex passwords for all your online accounts. Consider using a password manager to help you create and manage strong passwords.
• Beware of phishing scams: Be wary of emails, texts, or calls that ask for personal information or request you to click on suspicious links.
• Avoid public Wi-Fi networks: When possible, use a secure, private Wi-Fi network for online shopping. Public Wi-Fi networks can be vulnerable to attacks.
• Keep your software updated: Ensure that your operating system, web browser, and other applications are up to date with the latest security patches.
• Be cautious of online deals: Be wary of online deals that seem too good to be true. Legitimate retailers generally don't offer extremely low prices.
• Use secure payment methods: When making online purchases, use secure payment methods like credit cards with fraud protection.
• Monitor your account activity: Regularly review your online account activity for any unauthorized transactions.

Staying vigilant all year

Remember, cyber threats can evolve rapidly, especially during the holiday shopping season. From the moment you turn it on, your Surface laptop brings you the highest standard of Windows security available. 

You, too, can ensure additional security by staying vigilant all year. Use Microsoft Defender, keep your software updated, and watch for suspicious activities. Prioritize cybersecurity to ensure safer and more secure online shopping experiences throughout the holidays and all year round.