The number of scams in electronic commerce has increased surprisingly in recent years. Hence, the necessity to intensify security measures, as well as apply common sense and intuition to avoid being a victim. Some security recommendations that do not lose validity include:
Strong passwords
Access to the different platforms of daily use is done through a password. On some platforms, it has a validity period; but even if it has not expired, it is advisable to change it as a measure to reinforce data security and prevent sophisticated cybercriminals from accessing your personal information or your credit and debit cards.
Updating your apps
If you’ve received a message that an update is available, first check that it’s a genuine notification from your provider’s app store. Then, install the update to protect the sensitive information you store and share in your apps.
Common sense when faced with malicious messages
Receiving messages, emails, notifications with spelling mistakes, without the logo of the company that is supposedly trying to communicate with the user, as well as the use of language that does not correspond to regular contacts, should alert people to a possible scam attempt. It is essential, if possible, not to open or respond to such communications until you confirm with the sender that it is a genuine message and not a phishing scam.
Beware of “too good” offers
Incredible promotions, which are often called “too good”, can hide a scam for the customer. The best thing in these cases is to make sure that the brand is really offering very good offers or discounts before entering the card details and placing merchandise in the shopping cart.
Can you avoid falling for a scam?
It is advisable that the customer carefully reads the fine print on each portal, digital store or platform where they wish to buy or join in order to know the rules of use, security and complaint mechanisms, whether for breach of contract or in the case of a scam. In addition, it is essential to know which are the local consumer protection agencies as well as the legal bodies and free telephone lines to report and receive assistance. It is recommended to keep the names, telephone numbers, emails and addresses of these agencies in a personal diary, so that if necessary, they can be contacted quickly.
M.Pino
(Reference image source: Unsplash, in collaboration with Getty Images)
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