The Israeli Internet Association has published a list of guidelines and simple tips for proper and safe online purchase, after in recent weeks many Israeli citizens have been under a major cyber attack that does not distinguish between people, as long as he is an Israeli citizen.
Remember: Public wifi browsing is not protected.
It
is
recommended not to make a purchase or type credit information in payment applications such as Paypal via public WiFi, such as cafes, shops, airports, etc.
If you must, use a VPN.
If you make a purchase with the help of your cell phone where there is a connection to public WiFi, prefer to surf through the cellular network - it is much safer.
Look for the lock - encrypted and secure sites.
Never give out your credit card information, or any other personal information of yours on an unencrypted site.
Make sure "https" and a lock mark appear at the beginning of the URL.
It's worth knowing that paypal, for example, allows purchase protection, so even if you fall victim to a sting, you can get your money back.
Purchase from reputable stores Purchase from reputable
online stores.
Do not be tempted to shop at a store you have never heard of just because its prices are cheap.
Look for recommendations online, and consult before you give out your personal details at such a store.
Remember - if it's too good to be true - it's probably a scam.
Buy with a broker service
It is recommended to purchase through a broker service like Paypal or Apple pay where the credit card details are not revealed to the shopping site itself.
Always
be suspicious (!) If the website asks you for unnecessary information, such as a driver's license number, ID card or passport.
Beyond credit card information and personal information, there is no reason for the site to ask you for additional personal information.
Beware of Phishing
Do not access sites from a link you received via SMS or email, even if it sounds like a really worthwhile promotion.
Interested in the offer offered to you?
Re-type the URL in the browser and log in.
Note that the URL makes sense to you (the domain name matches the company name without spelling mistakes).
Avoid clicking on links, especially shortened links.
Use security products on your devices
It is recommended that you use Internet Security software as part of your security package.
Most security packages of large companies also contain this type of product, whose function is to protect you from entering dubious sites and from phishing attacks.
Paying through the site
When you pay to a third party through a site (like eBay or Airbnb), always transfer the money in the site's payment system, and do not agree to transfer money to an off-site seller (for example, by bank transfer, or direct PayPal transfer).
This method of operation is common among crooks with the aim of stealing money, and sales sites that sell products from third parties make efforts to prevent this.
Remember, do not agree to purchase by bank transfer.
Use only paypal credit card and similar.
Allocate one credit card usage and check it
Allocate only one credit card for online shopping, and check the account details frequently.
Do not download files to your computer from the site
There is no reason to download a file to your computer to purchase online.
When this is asked of you - it may be damage.
Yoram HaCohen: CEO of the Israeli Internet Association, Photo: The Israeli Internet Association
The director general of the Israeli Internet Association, Yoram HaCohen,
emphasized: "Attempts to steal credit information from innocent surfers who want to make purchases online are nothing new. "There is almost no protection for the simple surfer. The good news is that in a few simple steps we can all ensure a safe shopping experience - our message to surfers is to show personal responsibility."