Beware of E-skimming dangers during holiday shopping

E-skimming happens when a hacker inserts malicious credential-stealing software into a retailer’s website. While you are checking out with your credit card or debit card, the hacker is stealing your payment information from the shopping cart in real-time. They may even be using your card or selling the information on the dark web before you are done with the transaction.

Here are some things you can do to yourself from e-skimming, according to the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services newsletter:

• Enable alerts on your cards – “Card Not Present” transaction alerts are a good idea anyway, and they are one of your best defenses against e-skimming. This alert, usually sent by text or email, comes from your card issuer and lets you know anytime your card is used to make a number-only purchase. As soon as the transaction is processed, the alert is issued. You can contact your bank immediately and stop the payment from going through, as well as close that card and order a new one.
• Monitor your account – It is important that all consumers take a routine peek at their bank and card accounts in order to make sure there is nothing suspicious going on. Your card may be used or sold by a hacker, and there can be a limited window of time for you to dispute any charges in order to avoid accepting responsibility for them.
• Use trusted websites and look for HTPPS – Hackers have a fun game of seeing who can earn the most credibility by taking down bigger and bigger targets. However, the more trusted and secure the retailer, the more likely they are to have strong security protocols in place. Avoid sites you are not familiar with, no matter how great the advertised deals are.
• Consider a low-limit card for online purchases – Especially with holiday shopping, you might consider a low-limit credit card for use on the internet. It can help reduce the amount of damage a hacker can do if your card information is stolen online.
• Pre-plan your holiday shopping – If you are doing a lot of online shopping, it is a good idea to plan what you will be buying and from which retailers. First, it will help you stick to your holiday budget, but more importantly, you will not be lured into opening dozens of online accounts and spreading your spending around. Limiting where you shop can help reduce your risk of encountering an e-skimmer.

If you think you have been a victim of identity theft, contact the Identity Theft Resource Center for toll-free, no-cost assistance at 888.400.5530. For on-the-go assistance, check out the free ID Theft Help App from ITRC.