Be Safe When Shopping Online

Online shopping has become more popular in recent years, especially during the holiday rush. But shopping online can lead to cyber fraud, and Amica Insurance is sharing some tips to help prevent that from happening.

“Online shopping can be less stressful than going to the mall or other stores during the holiday season,” said Mike Gillerlane, a senior assistant vice president with Amica Insurance. “But consumers should be aware that there are risks involved, even if they’re shopping from the comfort of their own homes.”

According to a release from the Federal Bureau of Investigation, scammers have many different ways of committing cyber fraud. Those methods include running fraudulent auction sales, reshipping merchandise purchased with stolen credit cards and sending emails that promote the sale of counterfeit products.

“In advance of the holiday season, the FBI reminds shoppers to beware of cyber criminals and their aggressive and creative ways to steal money and personal information,” the release said.

Amica Insurance is sharing these tips from the FBI to help prevent cyber fraud:

• Don’t respond to unsolicited emails, also known as “spam.”
• Be wary of files attached to emails, as they may contain viruses.
• If asked to act quickly or respond to an emergency through email, it may be a scam.
• Avoid filling out forms in emails that ask for personal information.
• If a business or financial institution does request personal information, make sure the request is valid before responding.

“If something looks too good to be true, it usually is,” Gillerlane said. “Stay alert and use these tips to help make sure you’re protected this holiday season.”