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November 19, 2024

Stay safe while shopping online

Looking for a safer way to shop online without risking your personal information? Windows offers tools to enhance your online security, ensuring that your shopping experience is both convenient and protected. These essential tips will help you avoid scams, safeguard your data, and enjoy peace of mind while shopping online.

Avoid scams while shopping online

Online shopping offers incredible convenience, but it also comes with potential risks. Now is the perfect time to focus on how to protect personal information online and avoid scams. With the right precautions, you can shop with confidence, knowing your personal data is secure.

Women sitting on blue couch online shopping with security symbols around her

Credit: Designer in Copilot

1. Use secure websites for online shopping

Before entering your personal information on any site, make sure the website is secure. Look for a URL that begins with "https://" and includes a padlock symbol in the address bar. This indicates that the site uses encryption to protect your data. Shopping on secure sites helps ensure that your sensitive information, such as credit card details, is transmitted safely.

2. Avoid public Wi-Fi when shopping online

Public Wi-Fi networks can leave your personal data vulnerable to hackers. It’s best to avoid making purchases or entering sensitive information while connected to an unsecured network. If you must shop while on the go, consider using a VPN (virtual private network) to encrypt your connection. Windows makes it easy to manage your network settings to help ensure your data is secure, even when you’re traveling or in public spaces.

3. Create strong, unique passwords for online accounts

A strong password is one of the simplest ways to protect personal information online. Use a combination of letters, numbers, and symbols, and avoid using the same password across multiple sites. Windows includes built-in tools to help manage and store your passwords securely, reducing the chances of your account being hacked through weak or reused credentials.

4. Be cautious of phishing scams

Phishing scams are designed to trick you into giving up personal information by posing as legitimate businesses. Always be wary of unsolicited emails or messages asking for your financial or personal details. Windows offers security features to help identify and block phishing attempts, giving you an added layer of protection against these kinds of scams.

5. Monitor your bank and credit card statements

Regularly reviewing your bank and credit card statements is crucial for spotting fraudulent activity. If you notice any unauthorized transactions, report them immediately to your financial institution. Windows helps you keep your financial information safe with features like secure browsing and network monitoring to further reduce the risk of online fraud.

Stay safe and secure with Windows

Online shopping is convenient, but it’s essential to take steps to protect your personal information. Follow these cybersecurity tips to stay safe while shopping online, avoid scams, and ensure your sensitive data remains secure. With Windows, you have the tools you need to enjoy a safe and seamless shopping experience.

Try Windows for secure online shopping

Ready to shop safely online? Try Windows today and take advantage of the built-in cybersecurity features that help protect your personal information. Stay secure, avoid scams, and shop with confidence using Windows.

End of support for Windows 10

As Microsoft will end support for Windows 10 on October 14, 2025, upgrading to Windows 11 is essential for maintaining your security and access to the latest features. Having a solid backup in place with Windows Backup makes this transition easier, allowing you to quickly restore your important files, settings, and applications, ensuring a smooth upgrade process without the worry of losing critical data. Learn more.

DISCLAIMER: Features and functionality subject to change. Articles are written specifically for the United States market; features, functionality, and availability may vary by region.

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