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Online shopping has come a long way from just a few years ago. People are no longer as apprehensive about entering their credit card number into the computer and often do it freely without thinking. But being aware of safe online shopping practices will ensure your identity is protected.

Always use familiar websites and merchants. If you know a website has a “.com” at the end of the address, don’t be fooled by a lookalike with a “.net” or other ending. Cons like this are common and are an easy way to steal your information.

Look for the secure encryption. Most online merchants should have the secure sockets layer encryption in the web address. It should start with HTTPS:// (instead of the usual HTTP://). That extra S and padlock icon that appear ensures the page is safe.

Use smarter payment methods. Instead of entering your credit card number, have a Visa prepaid card or any other prepaid debit card. These cards only contain the amounts of money you yourself have put on them, meaning that if the numbers are stolen, thieves won’t run your credit into the ground.

Safeguard your password. Don’t give your online passwords or debit card pin numbers out to anyone. These numbers act as your identification, so anyone with access to them can pretend to be you.

Only use private computers. When buying online, filling up the shopping cart of a public computer leaves you open to identify theft. Many computers automatically remember passwords and credit card numbers so don’t put yourself in that situation. Shop smart.