Shopping online is becoming more and more popular with consumers.  Here are a few suggestions to help you stay safe shopping online:

• Security software is essential. Parents can use age appropriate filters to monitor and block online activities. Update regularly.
• Wi-Fi security: check you are connecting to the right network. Avoid making financial transactions on public Wi-Fi, use a password protected network.
• Website URL address security: look for the https at the start of the URL and make sure the green bar and padlock are present in the browser bar.
• Ensure you know who you are buying from.
• Be cautious when purchasing tickets – buy from a trusted source to make sure they are not fake.
• Read Terms and Conditions before agreeing as accepting and entering a legally binding agreement.
• Know your online consumer rights. For more information, check Consumer Protection Canada and BC Consumer Protection. 
• Use a secure payment site such as PayPal unless you know who you’re paying money to.
• Register your credit card with Verified by Visa, Mastercard Secure or American Express SafeKey for added security.
• Avoid unsolicited emails: links and files in unknown emails could be a scam and hold viruses or take you to fake sites to collect your personal or financial details.
• Use mobile banking online: check your statements regularly or get mobile alerts for your bank account.
  
  
  • Beware of fraud. Report any suspicious activity to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre as well as your bank.


• Always log out after an online transaction instead of just closing a browser window.