By Chuck Myers, McClatchy-Tribune News Service –
Internet security should be a top concern for anyone who shops online, particularly during the holiday season.
A simple mistake or assumption about a retail goods site’s security can increase the possibility of having a credit card number stolen — or even your identity.
Several websites offer solid information about online shopping security. Here are some locales worth a visit:
—Bankrate.com: Discusses credit card protections, fraud shield and security issues. http://www.bankrate.com/finance/credit-cards/shop-safely-on-the-web-1.aspx
—Better Business Bureau: Offers 10 online shopping safety tips for the holiday season. http://www.bbb.org/us/article/cyber-monday-great-deals-to-be-had-but-watch-out-for-scams-30795
—Federal Trade Commission: Provides consumer’s guide and tips to using e-payments for online shopping. http://www.ftc.gov/bcp/edu/pubs/consumer/tech/tec01.shtm
—OnGuardOnline: Presents basic, yet key safety tips for online shopping. http://www.onguardonline.gov/articles/0020-shopping-online
—Visa: Covers reducing your risk when online shopping and watching for spyware. http://usa.visa.com/personal/security/learn-the-facts/protection-tips/online-protection.html