A message from your friendly neighborhood
Information Security Manager:
Here are just a few tips for shopping safely
and keeping your personal data safe this holiday season...
Shopping in the physical world
- Don't
leave purchased items in plain sight in your vehicle. If you're
going back-and-forth to your vehicle to store packages, make sure that the
gifts you’ve bought aren't in plain sight. Lock gift purchases in your trunk or
in the back with a tarp over them if you have an SUV.
- When
shopping at night, try to park under a street lamp even if it means walking a
little further. Would-be thieves are more prone to do their dirt
where the lighting is low--and it will be safer for you, too.
- Make
it a point to show your identification card when paying by credit card, even if
the court does not ask for it. Clerks are supposed to check this for
purchases over a specific amount--typically $50. Showing your
identification card is a good precautionary step to authenticate your use of
your own cards and encourages retailers to prevent fraudulent use.
- Take
inventory of the cards that you have in your wallet or purse. In the
event that you should lose your wallet or purse while shopping, you'll have a
list correlating to the lender you should call.
- If
you're purchasing (or using) gift cards, be aware of the use limitations on
them. For instance, restaurants will typically put a hold on a card
for an amount that includes the bill total plus an anticipated tip. Also,
some prepaid cards require the use of a PIN to use--recipients should be made
aware of this and have guidance in the event the debit card is lost.
- Protect
your personal information like your life depends on it. Some retailers (e.g., Best Buy) are now
asking for a swipe of your driver’s license in order to return product. While a
VISUAL inspection of your government identity card--drivers license, passport,
etc.--is fine, swiping the magnetic stripe or photocopying is not as it allows
the retailer to retain personal data they NOT need to do a simple return.
Assuming you have the original receipt and/or the original card used,
simply ask the cashier to verify identity the old fashioned way to protect your
personal data.
Shopping online
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