Security is a vital element when it comes to safely surfing the internet.  If you are one of the several million people who use online payments, providing sensitive information over the internet can leave you targeted by hackers looking to take advantage of your internet activity. Whether it’s about online safety, online payments or data clouds, the following tips will provide you with what you need to know to make sure you stay safe and secured on the internet:

• Online Payment Security:

1. Enter websites you are familiar with:
   Always shop using trusted websites instead of browsing on search engines. Search engine results can be misleading.
2. Find the Lock symbol:
   If the website you are on does not have an SSL encryption, never purchase from it as your credit card information can be compromised.
3. Never share unnecessary information:
   E-Commerce websites do not ask or need sensitive info such as your social security number for business reasons.
4. Regularly check your statements:
   Make it a habit to check your statements online for your credit card, debit card, and checking accounts to ensure no fraudulent charges exist.
5. Never use public computers:
   This is self-explanatory, using public computers puts your information at high risk of being stolen.

• Internet Security:

1.  Two-factor authentication is recommended:
   Two-factor authentication lets users provide another code in addition to their password. Eg, sending codes via SMS etc.
2. Update your browser and devices:
   Outdated browsers and devices leaves you at risk of being hacked. Hackers usually find glitches in older version where it is possible for them to capture information from software and devices. Continuous updates prevent that.
3. Create strong passwords:
   Avoid using simple words, birthdays, or any word that is easily guessed. Always be sure to reach the “strong” gauge when creating passwords, mixing between upper and lower case characters is also recommended.
4. Use Google Security:
   This free service from Google helps strengthen your accounts to further guarantee your safety online.
5. Regularly change your passwords:
   Other than creating a strong password, it’s important to change them regularly to keep hackers at bay.

• Credit Card Security:

1. Keep your PC well protected and up-to-date:
   Your antivirus and spyware software needs to be running and updated to the latest version when you are connected to the internet. Many existent online bugs are designed to track and record all of your personal information. Don’t make purchases or transactions without enabling anti-spyware and antivirus software.
2. Try E-Wallets:
   A helpful software where your address and credit card information can be stored on a program in your computer that requires you to sign in using a password and username. This software then automatically fills in the blanks for you.
3. Include Virtual Cards:
   They offer another level of protection involving using a false card number that you can use to make a purchase online. A virtual card will disguise the real account number so hackers will not be able to steal it. Only select banks offer this.
4. Secure Your Email:
   If your do not own a secure email address, you may be loosely giving away credit card information to hackers. It’s preferred to print confirmation emails immediately then to discard of them online. No sensitive information should be found in your emails.

• Cloud Security Tips:

1. Be aware of where your data is stored:
   Include specialized hardware to permit cloud computing services to pass the most strict security procedures.
2. Always backup your data:
   Many backup outlets are available to store your vital data in a safe and secure place.

Ensuring all your software, electronics, and information are constantly updated and protected will be the start of an important step to keeping you safe on the internet. At PayTabs, we highly value security. Our services come with a built-in fraud protection system which includes our own in-house fraud protection layer as well as the internationally recognized 3DSecure system. This two-layered system ensures that your transactions are highly secure and hassle free. Keep checking the PayTabs blog for many more useful tips and updates!