Wednesday, December 18, 2013

Shop safely this holiday season

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
Additional tips for shopping online à click here


'Nough said,

+THINKER

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