Black Friday is Almost Here – How to Privately and Securely Shop Online

Black Friday is almost here, so prepare your wallet for some great deals. Over the past few years, online shopping on Black Friday has become very popular. Shopping over the internet is very convenient, and might seem like the safest way of doing business. But, the truth is, it can also put you in risk of losing your money, and even worse, jeopardize your internet privacy and safety. Read this week’s Zlog and find out how you can shop over the internet in complete online security and privacy.

How to Securely Shop Online on Black Friday and Cyber Monday

When it comes to online security, many internet goers are confident in their cyber security knowledge, undertaking only minimal precautionary measures, which often leaves them vulnerable to cybercriminals and hackers who are especially active at this time of year. That’s why you should never leave your online shopping up to chance.

Practice Tight Security and Monitor your Credit Card

Strong password security is always an absolute must. Practice tight security by creating secure and unique passwords for every site you’ll be carrying out your transactions on. You can install browser extensions, password managers and other useful tools. This will not only improve your online security and privacy but will also make it easier for you to manage all of the passwords.

As you start hunting for the best Black Friday deals, it’s important to keep your cool and always keep track of your purchases. This can help you spot potential frauds or security breaches, so you can react in time. Also, it’ll be easier to keep note of any dishonest dealings, as even legitimate businesses can overstate their discounts or charge you with extra fees when completing the transaction.

The Less Information, the Better

If you’ve completed an online purchase or two before, you know that you’ll have to give the website your billing information, address, name and contact info. This is basically all of the information you’re legitimately required to give to them. If a website asks for any additional info that you must provide them with in order to proceed, you’ll be better off canceling your purchase. Never give more information that you’re required and share any of your personal details except the above-mentioned details.

Be careful with Website Links

Lastly, it’s always important to make sure you’re visiting a legitimate site. Before entering any personal information, make sure you’re on the right site by looking in your URL bar. Additionally, if you can, avoid clicking on URL shorteners. Many websites use them, as they are a great way of making long URL’s shorter and easier on the eyes, but these shorteners can also lead you to a scammer-created link.

Use a VPN for Safer Online Shopping

The previously mentioned measures will greatly help in ensuring you’re safe while shopping online, but this one will all but guarantee your privacy and security. Using a VPN you will create an extra layer of security between you and the online world. With a VPN service, you’ll be able to shop from anywhere you want, even on public Wi-Fi networks, without having to worry about your online security and privacy. You will shop knowing that your address is secure and that you can’t be compromised by cybercriminals.

Use a VPN to save money when Shopping Online

Using a VPN will not only guarantee your online security and privacy. It can also save you a lot of money when buying products and services on the internet. Here are just a couple of things you can do to save money on Black Friday by using a VPN:

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