This Christmas will be unlike any other in recent memory. We don’t yet know what type of COVID-19 guidelines we’ll be experiencing, but in any event, if you’ve a long list of Christmas presents to get, you will likely need to purchase the majority online.

If you aren’t experienced in online shopping, it’s sometimes easier to get a tech-savvy relative or someone you trust from within your bubble to help you out. The great news regarding “going virtual” is you can still support your favourite Irish businesses, since most have made the move to online sales in recent months. Online shopping is easier and more secure than it has ever been. However, fake websites, scams and identity theft still occur – it’s important to take every necessary precaution while shopping online.

Irish Country Living spoke with a representative from the European Consumer Centre Ireland (ECC) for some top tips on how to shop online in a safe and secure way this Christmas.

“To avoid online fraud, traps, scams and schemes, it is important for consumers to remain vigilant at all times,” the ECC says.

The ECC encourages consumers to “think before you click and stay safe online” with the following tips: 

  • Make sure the website provides a secure connection (the web address begins with “https”), displays an encryption certificate (like a padlock or unbroken key symbol) and uses a verified payment processing provider.
  • The website is a legitimate representation of the brand, and not a mirror or look-alike site; giveaways for this include misspelled brand names, no identifying details and prices too low for the misrepresented site.
  • Your device has the latest antivirus and anti-spyware software, as well as an effective firewall.
  • Don’t do your shopping on unsecured public WiFi networks (like in shopping malls or cafes) or hotspots where your details are vulnerable.
  • Enable a complex password (something only you would know) and a two-step verification (by e-mail or phone) when you register your payment method on retail sites.
  • Use a credit card or third-party payment system (Apple Pay, Google Pay or PayPal, etc) connected to your credit card for all online purchases to help eliminate the risk of fraud.
  • Protect your credit card by enabling security authentication such as 3D Secure, which verifies the cardholder at every online transaction to protect them against unauthorised use.

    • For more information on how to shop online safely, you can visit the ECC website at www.eccireland.ie.