Be savvy online when shopping this Christmas

It may be the season for giving, but Australians risk having their identities and finances stolen by giving away too much personal information when shopping online this festive period.

With Australians increasingly using the internet to purchase Christmas gifts, the Australian Federal Police (AFP) and Abacus – Australian Mutuals, industry body for credit unions and building societies, urge people to take precautions when shopping online.

National Manager of the AFP’s High Tech Crime Operations, Neil Gaughan, said cyber-criminals, like all criminals, would be preying on the vulnerability of potential victims during the holiday period.

“This is not a warning to avoid the internet, because Australians should be able to go online and enjoy the experience of shopping for their Christmas gifts,” Assistant Commissioner Gaughan said.

“But consumers should ensure they protect their personal and financial information, keeping in mind some basic steps when using your credit card online so as to prevent fraud and avoid any disappointment and stress.

“Just as you would lock your doors to prevent criminals entering your home this Christmas, there are some precautions everyone can take to try and prevent cyber-criminals from compromising your computer.”

“With the Australian Bureau of Statistics estimating the value of Australian business internet orders was at $123 billion in 2008–09 - and with almost half of all consumers surveyed by the Australian Communications and Media Authority spending more than $1000 – safe, savvy online shopping is set to be big business this Christmas and festive season,” said Abacus CEO Louise Petschler.

“Consumers expect high standards from online retailers and we are warning the public about the level of information they give - for instance, no one should have to provide a date of birth to merchants to buy pet supplies.”

Some simple tips to protect yourself online this holiday period include: 

• Installing a firewall, reputable anti-virus software and anti-spyware software, and run real time updates; 
• Keeping your passwords private; 
• Researching the merchant before placing an order; 
• Reading a website’s privacy and security policies; 
• Saving all transaction details; 
• Providing only necessary information about yourself; 
• Not clicking on links in emails from online retailers or online greeting cards as they may result in malware (malicious software) being downloaded onto your computer.

Media contact:

Gillian Tatt, Senior PR Officer, Teachers Credit Union ph: 0448 259 942.