Ask an Expert: Internet security

Related tags Credit card World wide web Debit card

I can see the convenience of buying my supplies over the internet, but I'm worried about security. How can I shop safely online?Many people feel...

I can see the convenience of buying my supplies over the internet, but I'm worried about security. How can I shop safely online?

Many people feel uncomfortable shopping over the internet. However, if you take a few precautions it can actually be safer than using your credit card in a restaurant.

1. Don't shop on public computers or over public networks. Various techniques are used to spy on you. Always shop at home in the pub.

2. Get the basics in place. Clean your computer with free software that detects spyware (www.pctools.com) and install a firewall (www.zonelabs.com). Use an anti-virus application (www.free.grisoft.com) or an all-in-one solution (www.avast.com).

3. If you don't know the company you're buying from, and Googling reveals nothing, shop elsewhere.

4. Don't visit a web address with something written to the left of an @ sign - the browser will direct you somewhere else.

5. Read the seller's privacy policy to find out how information may be used.

6. Turn off 'auto complete' features in the browser and delete previously saved usernames and passwords.

7. Update your browser to take advantage of advances in encryption.

8. Use a credit card, not a debit card, for internet purchases. Debit cards don't have the same protection as credit cards when it comes to limiting your liability for fraudulent use. Alternatively, sign up for a Paypal account. Paypal acts as a trusted intermediary, and you don't have to give out card details.

9. Look for the padlock icon on the status bar at the bottom of your browser window, which indicates the site is secure. It should be paired with an 's' added to the usual http ('https://') at the beginning of the web address when you get ready to submit your purchase information.

10. Check your statements each month for unauthorised charges.

Paul Boggia is a self-confessed 'IT geek' and licensee of the Kingston Arms in Cambridge

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