Shop til you drop, but don't drop your bank account info!

Pretty much every store is having an online sale right now. Here’s how to avoid becoming a victim of identity theft.

• Install firewalls and virus detection software on all computers, and regularly update and patch them.

• Use strong passwords (a mix of numbers, symbols and uppercase or lowercase letters), and a different password for bank accounts and other sensitive accounts than for social media accounts.

• Research websites/retailers to make sure they’re legitimate especially when discounts seem too good to be true. The lock symbol in the browser address bar indicates encryption is used.

• Only pay using secure payment methods (unsafe methods include wire transfer, Bitcoin, and money order).

• Don’t over-share on social media. Travel plans, names, and other facts make it easier for thieves.

• Use discretion when downloading apps (some companies issue app-approved lists for their employees). Research new apps to see if there are any reported security issues.

• Use the privacy settings provided by apps and social media sites.

• Don’t open suspicious e-mails and attachments. Go to the company’s website or call.

• Do not transmit passwords, payment information, or any other confidential information when using public Wi-Fi.

• Shop with familiar companies, and watch for phishing schemes disguised as holiday deals. Hover the mouse over links to see where they lead before clicking. If in doubt, delete.

• Safeguard confidential information off-line too. If volunteering, be weary of providing sensitive personal information and ask about data security practices. At check-outs, don’t reveal too much confidential information out loud, and guard your pin.

• Be sure someone can accept packages being delivered. Mailing labels and receipts contain personal information too.

• Check credit card and bank statements often. Promptly report purchases you didn’t make.

• Partner with a trustworthy document destruction company for secure destruction of paper documents and hard drives and e-media that are no longer needed.