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Best ways to protect your money while shopping

Posted at 5:06 PM, Nov 17, 2017
and last updated 2017-11-17 21:38:54-05

Customer information may have been release in a data breach this week. This time it's a clothing store Forever 21.

 

With the holiday shopping season around the corner ABC 23 found out some of the best ways to protect yourself; especially if you're using a credit card or shopping online.

 

Shoppers at Valley Plaza Mall have different ways to protect themselves. Whether it’s at the cash register,

 

Shafter shopper, Jacinto Lopez said, “Go take money from the bank, and use a hundred dollars only right here in the mall."

 

or whether it’s online,

 

Bakersfield shopper, Destiny Finch, said “I’ll make sure the right number comes out, like when I do order from like a China website.”

 

Cyber security expert Travis Day says some ways of paying for your gifts are safer than others.

 

Day works for ARRC Technology in Bakersfield. He said, “If they offer the option to pay with your phone that platform is a great platform. It’s secure straight between you and the carrier.”

 

Day also says when using a card, cards with chips are your best option. The chip adds an extra security measure so a thief can’t duplicate your card and swipe without your permission.

 

When buying online, there’s a specific icon you should be on the lookout for before submitting private information.

 

Day said, “It’s display a lock next to the actual web url and that lock insures that the traffic between you and the website is encrypted so any information that goes through is strictly between you and the website.”

 

As for those amazing deals emailed to you, don’t trust them all.

 

Day said, "If they’re too good to be true, kinda, kinda go with that rhythm. Don’t, I wouldn't click on any links I’m not sure about.”

 

Finally when you make your way to the checkout counter, make sure no is watching or has their phone out spying on you while you’re putting in your pin.