Tips to protect yourself while shopping online.

1. Install, update and activate your security software
At a minimum, use a firewall and antivirus software to protect you from malware that gives cybercriminals easy entrance into your computer and accounts. There are many free options. If you only use antivirus, be sure to add a two-way firewall to block hackers from entering your computer and using it to send out attacks and spam.

2. Use strong, unique passwords
Always create strong passwords (read: not these ones) for all online accounts and include letters, numbers and symbols. Longer passwords are more secure and harder to crack. Hackers employ special password-cracking software to guess their way into your accounts. Avoid using the same password for every account — it makes it easier for hackers.

3. Only connect to legitimate Wi-Fi networks
Before you connect to a network and start shopping