With Amazon, Flipkart sales approaching follow these cyber safety tips while shopping online

The highly anticipated online sales season is here with e-commerce giants Amazon and Flipkart poised to unveil their premium deals this week. Amid the rising online shopping during the limited Sale periods on e-commerce platforms it is paramount for consumers to not let their guard down. In an era of online conveniences, prudence and awareness are essential to safeguard the valuable personal and financial data.

The Amazon Great Freedom Festival Sale starts from August 4 with early access for Prime members from August 3. The festive sale will continue till August 8. On the other hand, Flipkart launches its Big Saving Days Sale from August 4 and it will be open till August 9.

As we edge closer to the exciting sales on Amazon and Flipkart, let's embrace these safety precautions to enjoy a secure and seamless online shopping journey.  

Securing Your Online Shopping Experience

First and foremost, it's critical to have a secure connection to shield your data from any potentially malicious software. Make certain your computer's firewall is activated and only utilise encrypted networks for transactions. Public networks should be avoided, as they could potentially be compromised. As an additional line of defence, consider employing a robust internet security programme. Features such as real-time anti-phishing and identity theft protection are essential.

Your choice of e-commerce store plays a significant role in your online safety. Established stores like Flipkart, Myntra, and Amazon, with a positive reputation are typically safer. But, if you're exploring new stores, it's prudent to conduct a bit of reconnaissance. Be wary of deals that appear too enticing, as disreputable retailers may employ bait-and-switch tactics, advertising an alluring product at a ridiculously low price, only to redirect you to a pricier item when they claim it's out of stock.

Staying Safe While Checking Out Online

When it comes to payment methods, credit cards and services like BillDesk tend to offer superior security protections compared to debit cards or UPI. Some savvy online shoppers even earmark a specific credit card solely for online transactions, making it easier to track and control any unauthorised charges.

Setting up accounts for online shopping also requires careful attention. Ensure to use strong, unique passwords to bolster your personal information's security. However, avoid sharing more information than is necessary. Typically, e-stores require your payment method, shipping address, email address, and phone number.

Maximising your online shopping experience

It's also important to fully comprehend the retailer's shipping terms. Overpriced shipping fees can transform an attractive deal into an extravagant mistake. Always check whether the retailer provides tracking and insurance for the shipped items, and exercise caution if the shipping time exceeds 10 days.

Lastly, stay up-to-date. As an increasing number of e-commerce sites are emphasising their mobile apps, ensure you're running the latest version. These apps often come with exclusive deals and offer a more seamless shopping experience.