Special Note: The preceding information may or may not reflect the views or policies of the Missouri Office of Homeland Security and the State of Missouri. The Office of Homeland Security makes no representation concerning and does not guarantee the source, originality, accuracy, completeness or reliability of any statement, information, data, finding, interpretation, advice, opinion, or view presented.
Missouri Cyber Security Initiative
The holiday shopping season is over, but that does not end the deals that can be found shopping on the world wide web. While the internet is a convenient way to shop, communicate, bank, and have fun it does have associated risks. However, by taking minimal precautions you can limit the risks and enjoy a useful way to shop, communicate, and play. The following information will assist you when you are on the internet.
Online Shopping:
You should only shop with retailers you know and trust. These are retailers that you have verified have a physical address.
Use only private computers that cannot be accessed by the public.
Only shop with a Credit Card. Debit Cards do not have the same protection under Federal law as Credit Cards. In addition, some Credit Card company's offer temporary account numbers to protect your identity while shopping online. Check with your Credit Card for special fraud protection.
Check for the security lock icon or make sure that the URL has https at the beginning.
Always keep a paper trail of all your online purchases.
Ensure your computer has the most current version of an anti-spyware and anti-virus program.
Check the company's privacy policy before purchasing to ensure they do not give out your personal information.
Phishing is a scam which attempts to entice email recipients into clicking on a link that takes them to a bogus website. The website may prompt the recipient to provide personal information such as social security number, bank account number or credit card number, and/or it may download malicious software onto the recipient’s computer. Both the link and website may appear authentic, however they are not legitimate. (MS-ISAC-www.msisac.org)
Be cautious about all communications you receive while on the internet including e-mails, instant messages, and pop-up messages. If you do not know the e-mail and the sender you should not open it.
Never open any attachments or click any links from suspicious e-mail.
Consider installing a phishing filter on your computer.
Ensure that you have an up-to-date version of anti-virus, anti-spam, and anti-spy software.
Do not give out any personal information through e-mails. Reputable companies will contact you via an official letter or through the phone; even then you should never give out personal information until you have verified the receiving individual is legitimate.
Check your credit card and banking account statements for unauthorized charges or withdraws.
If you become a victim of phishing or an online shopping scam you should immediately contact your financial institution including any credit card, checking, savings, or financial service companies you do business with. You should also contact the Missouri State Attorney General's Office by calling them at: 1-800-392-8222 or online at https://www.consumer.ago.mo.gov/.
