Smart Habits for Safe Online Shopping

Why Online Safety Matters

With more people buying online than ever, scams and fraud are on the rise. At Provident Credit Union, we want you to enjoy the convenience of shopping online while keeping your personal and financial information safe.

4 Tips to Keep You Safe

1. Before You Shop
Stick with trusted websites by typing web addresses directly into your browser and looking for HTTPS and a padlock icon. Take time to check sellers and reviews, researching the seller’s reputation carefully. Be cautious if an offer seems too good to be true, as it often is.

2. Protect Your Information
Secure your connection by avoiding public Wi-Fi when shopping online. If you must use it, consider a secure network or VPN. Always use strong, unique passwords and enable two-factor authentication (2FA) for an added layer of protection that keeps your information safe.

3. Safe Checkout Practices
Choose secure payment methods such as credit cards or virtual cards, which offer stronger protection than debit or gift cards. Watch for urgency tactics, as scammers often pressure shoppers with flash sales or “only one left” warnings. Take your time to verify before completing a purchase.

4. After Your Purchase
Monitor your accounts by checking statements regularly and setting up alerts for unusual activity. Protect deliveries by tracking packages and requiring signatures for valuable items to prevent theft. If something doesn’t seem right, report suspicious activity to your bank immediately and notify the appropriate authorities.

Keep Your Accounts Protected with Provident

Staying safe doesn’t stop after you shop. With Provident Credit Union’s digital tools, you can stay in control of your money and spot fraud early. Here are a few smart habits to put into practice:

• Set up account alerts: Get notified right away about purchases, low balances, or unusual activity.
• Review your statements regularly: A quick monthly check helps you catch errors or unauthorized charges.
• Update your security settings: Enable two-factor authentication and keep your contact information current.
• Report anything suspicious: If you notice unusual activity, contact Provident immediately.

Log in to Online Banking

For more tips on securing your accounts and protecting your personal information, visit our Online Security Resources.