The holiday season is a time of hustle, bustle, stress, and happiness. It’s a perfect time for criminals to prey on the unsuspecting. Don’t let your guard down.
Your Car
Keep your doors locked and valuables out of sight. That may seem like common sense, but all too often crimes of opportunity are committed against unlocked doors. Keep temptation to a minimum by keeping your possessions hidden. When you stop to pump gas, keep your purse or wallet on the floor in the back seat; criminals have been known to open the passenger door and help themselves while you’re otherwise occupied.
Online Shopping
Do not enter any personal or account information unless you are able to verify that the web address starts with https://. The lock icon on your browser’s address bar will also let you know if the site is secure.
Phishing
Beware of any email asking for your account and password information. Anyone you do business with will not request this information from you, especially not through email. If you accidentally fall for phishing, alert the company immediately to protect yourself.
Update
Protect your computer and all your data therein. Keep your browser and virus protection up to date. This is your best protection against viruses and malware.
Passwords
Make your passwords strong with characters in addition to letters. Don’t use words that are easy to link to you nor dates that are easy to identify.
Wi-Fi
Don’t conduct business over an unsecured wi-fi network. Internet hotspots are readily available so work and play can be conducted almost anywhere. Don’t give more than you wanted when you grab your laptop and latte.
Money
Keep your money safe. Don’t carry large amounts of cash and use credit when possible.
These are simple steps to make your holiday season a little less stressful.