These days, Christmas shopping presents us with two very different options: don coat, hat and scarf to brave the crowds in shops rammed full of angry customers, or sit in the warmth of your bed and get it all done online. We know which one we’d rather, but the truth is that online shopping still carries with it a few risks – both to your computer and to your wallet.

If you want to get your Christmas gift buying done with the help of the wireless ether, heed to the following tips, courtesy of the Geek Squad over at the T3 Knowledge microsite.

 

1. Just browsing
Use an alternative browser to Internet Explorer. Malware (malicious software) is normally designed to work with Internet Explorer, so using another browser will help avoid it.

 

2. Trust in me
Only use online stores that you know and trust. There are numerous scamming websites out there.

 

3. Google it
Google shopping will help you search for the product you want at the cheapest price. All sellers have been confirmed by Google as legit companies. You can be assured you are buying from someone trusted.

 

4. A strong defence...
Install a decent anti-virus such as Trend Micro which features online shopping security software and can detect when you’re accessing an insecure website.

 

5. Locked up
Only visit secure sites; check that the web address in the browser starts with “https” (Http Secure) and a small closed padlock icon is displayed in the status bar of the browser whilst at the checkout.

- Want more safety? We don’t blame you. Click to see all 10 online safety tips.