It's the Wednesday workshop!

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Comment by Pippa Wright on May 17, 2010 at 5:28am

I'm with Sally on the Facebook thing. I know that a lot of people are up in arms with the latest security changes so if there is anything simple that can be done to stop it...

Comment by Matt Hicks on May 12, 2010 at 9:23am

Hi Carol,

When online shopping the most important things to consider are common sense and care; some scams can be pretty convincing in getting you to part with your money. Generally, if an offer seems too good to be true, it quite probably is and the best action to take is, that if you are not 100% confident about a site then don't give over your details.

These tips should also go a good way to keeping you safe:

* Try to stick to the known and trusted sites.
* Make sure that the connection to the website is an http (in the address bar, such as http://www.safer-surfing.co.uk), and that this changes to “https” when you come to the purchasing pages. This doesn't guarantee safety, but in most cases these sites are safe.
*When you do go to purchase make sure that the website uses what is known as SSL encryption (Secure Socket Layer) and security authentication methods. A good sign for this is the locked padlock in the border of your browser window, whilst some newer browsers also show similar information in the address bar.
* Find and read the privacy policy of the website in question.
* Use credit cards instead of debit cards, as debit cards offer a lower liability in case you are the victim of fraud.
* Always shop from a secure PC with a good security suite installed that is fully up to date.

Of course, these are just some key things to be aware of, and there’s no substitute for taking care. We’re looking to have a more in-depth guide available for you via Safer Surfing in the coming months.

Bottom line... trust your instincts – if in doubt, get more information before submitting your information.

Best,

Matt

Comment by Matt Hicks on May 12, 2010 at 7:53am

Hi,

Carol - I'm drafting some tips for safe online shopping, will have them with you in a bit!

Sally - by "lock down" do you mean to make sure no-one can see any of your information unless you approve them?

Cheers,

Matt

Comment by Sally Whittle on May 12, 2010 at 7:49am

What's the easiest way to lock down your Facebook account?

Comment by Carol Smith on May 12, 2010 at 4:49am

How can you tell when a site is safe to buy from?