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By Karen Curtis |

How to shop safely this Cyber Monday

Holiday Shopping Online vs Stores
Cyber Monday sales this season surpassing growth in sales at physical stores, (AP Photo/Paul Sakuma, File)

The IRS is warning online shoppers to “be smart” when shopping online this Cyber Monday.
After all, ’tis the hunting season for online thieves.

Here are some tips:

tips

But how can you avoid getting duped trying to cash in on Cyber Monday deals?
Alejandra Castro with the IRS warns that you need to be extra vigilant in protecting your personal and financial information online today and throughout this holiday shopping season.
Only shop at secure websites whose address begins with https//: and that display the padlock icon.
padlock
Don’t use your credit card information while shopping on line if you are signed in as a “guest” at places like the airport or Panera Bread.
Use a secure WIFI network, preferably at home.

Cyber Monday
FILE – In this Feb. 9, 2018, file photo packages move down a conveyor system were they are directed to the proper shipping area at the new Amazon Fulfillment Center in Sacramento, Calif. “Cyber Monday” is still holding up as the biggest online shopping day of the year, even though the same deals have been available online for weeks and the name harks back to the days of dial-up modems. (AP Photo/Rich Pedroncelli, File)

Also Castro advises that you use updated security software on your computer and cellphone and use strong and unique passwords for all accounts.
That means no: 12345 or “Password” passwords.
Castro also reminds folks to avoid odd or unknown sites online that promise deals that look too good to be true.