Cyber Monday Safety (and Savings)

The biggest online shopping day of the year is here and VIPRE is getting in the spirit with our largest-ever discount on antivirus software. Save up to 75% today only at our Cyber Monday Sale, with prices as low as $9.95.
VIPRE Antivirus 2012 and VIPRE Internet Security 2012 deals include one year of antivirus protection, with the latest thread definition updates, for a single PC. These exclusive offers make it easy and affordable to protect your Black Friday and Cyber Monday PC purchases against Internet threats.

Planning to shop ‘til you drop today? Safely search for Cyber Monday specials with these five online security tips:

1. Secure Your PC and Network- Be sure the computer you use has, at a minimum, a firewall, up-to-date antivirus software and the latest version of whichever web browser you are running. At home, ensure your wireless network is password-protected. If you must shop online in a public place, avoid using an unsecured Wi-Fi connection.
2. Use Strong Passwords- A strong, alphanumeric password with at least eight characters is an easy way to help defend your personal information online. It is also recommended that you use different user names and passwords for each online account you have.
3. Shop on Trusted, Secure Websites- Before entering your personal financial information to make a transaction, always make sure that you are using a site that provides encryption for the credit card transaction. Look for the closed padlock on the browser’s address bar or at the bottom of the screen. Also check the browser’s address bar to confirm that the URL begins with “https,” signifying a secure site that provides encrypted communication.
4. Protect Personal Information- Most online shopping will require disclosing information to process a transaction. It is normal to provide contact information like an address and phone number, and, when prompted, your credit card number. However, be wary of any request for additional information, especially if it is received by email claiming to confirm a purchase or asking for additional information. Always contact the merchant directly if you have any doubt about requests for personal information you receive.
5. Be Careful What You Click – While searching online for deals and product reviews, be careful about clicking on hyperlinks you run across in search engine results and holiday e-cards, as well as on social networking sites like Twitter and Facebook, even if it appears that your friends are suggesting a link for you. Always verify the URL address—especially shortened URLs—of any link you run across to ensure it will direct you to a safe, reputable website. One wrong click can lead to malware that could end your holiday shopping season early.