To continue with “guarding” secrets via protecting your identity from those ever-present ID thieves, we sometimes don’t think it’s vital we do so while shopping.
Shop-Smart, an arm of Consumer Reports, tells us to think hard before entering both an online and a traditional store. For example:
It goes without saying to install security software on your computer and to keep it updated automatically. ShopSmart’s top-of-the-list is Avira’s AntiVir Personal; plus, it’s free.
Never shop using public wireless connections. You could mistakenly connect to a Wi-Fi crook who’s just sitting waiting to pounce on your personal information.
Obviously, avoid email scams. As I’ve advised 60 gazillion times, keep any and all personal info just that – private and personal. No legitimate retailer will ask.