{"id":23666,"date":"2026-01-20T00:24:21","date_gmt":"2026-01-19T22:24:21","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/moneyhub.ee\/?p=23666"},"modified":"2026-01-12T11:29:30","modified_gmt":"2026-01-12T09:29:30","slug":"safe-online-shopping","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/moneyhub.ee\/en\/useful\/articles\/safe-online-shopping\/","title":{"rendered":"How to stay safe whilst online shopping"},"content":{"rendered":"\t\t<div data-elementor-type=\"wp-post\" data-elementor-id=\"23666\" class=\"elementor elementor-23666\" data-elementor-post-type=\"post\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-5d7efb58 e-flex e-con-boxed e-con e-parent\" data-id=\"5d7efb58\" data-element_type=\"container\" data-e-type=\"container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"e-con-inner\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-32d40bf6 elementor-widget elementor-widget-shortcode\" data-id=\"32d40bf6\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"shortcode.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-shortcode\"><nav aria-label=\"breadcrumbs\" class=\"rank-math-breadcrumb\"><p><\/p><\/nav><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-1e4750ba e-flex e-con-boxed e-con e-parent\" data-id=\"1e4750ba\" data-element_type=\"container\" data-e-type=\"container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"e-con-inner\">\n\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-a047e75 ddddf e-flex e-con-boxed e-con e-child\" data-id=\"a047e75\" data-element_type=\"container\" data-e-type=\"container\" data-settings=\"{&quot;background_background&quot;:&quot;classic&quot;}\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"e-con-inner\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-20c9d99a elementor-widget elementor-widget-heading\" data-id=\"20c9d99a\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"heading.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<h2 class=\"elementor-heading-title elementor-size-default\">Learn how to stay safe shopping online. Discover online fraud prevention tips, secure payment methods and protect yourself from scams with expert advice.<\/h2>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-18b94166 e-flex e-con-boxed e-con e-parent\" data-id=\"18b94166\" data-element_type=\"container\" data-e-type=\"container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"e-con-inner\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-13e8adb2 elementor-widget elementor-widget-image\" data-id=\"13e8adb2\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"image.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<img fetchpriority=\"high\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"800\" height=\"450\" src=\"https:\/\/moneyhub.ee\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/How-to-stay-safe-whilst-online-shopping.jpg\" class=\"attachment-full size-full wp-image-23668\" alt=\"How to stay safe whilst online shopping\" srcset=\"https:\/\/moneyhub.ee\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/How-to-stay-safe-whilst-online-shopping.jpg 800w, https:\/\/moneyhub.ee\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/How-to-stay-safe-whilst-online-shopping-300x169.jpg 300w, https:\/\/moneyhub.ee\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/How-to-stay-safe-whilst-online-shopping-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/moneyhub.ee\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/How-to-stay-safe-whilst-online-shopping-768x432.jpg 768w, https:\/\/moneyhub.ee\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/How-to-stay-safe-whilst-online-shopping-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/moneyhub.ee\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/How-to-stay-safe-whilst-online-shopping-2048x1152.jpg 2048w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-19d502c4 e-flex e-con-boxed e-con e-parent\" data-id=\"19d502c4\" data-element_type=\"container\" data-e-type=\"container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"e-con-inner\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-175f64b5 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"175f64b5\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<h1><b>How to stay safe whilst online shopping<\/b><\/h1><h2><b>How to avoid getting more than you bargained for when shopping online<\/b><\/h2><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">With over<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.flowlu.com\/blog\/productivity\/ecommerce-statistics\/#:~:text=online%20commerce%20industry.-,Top%20Ecommerce%20Facts%20for%202026,U.S.%20online%20sales%20in%202024.\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">3 billion people worldwide expected to shop online in 2026<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, shopping online has become second nature for many of us. Online platforms can now reach a vast number of customers, making it easier than ever for businesses to expand their audience.\u00a0<\/span><\/p><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Although the convenience and variety are unmatched, the rise in e-commerce has also attracted an increase in cybercrime, leaving consumers vulnerable to:<\/span><\/p><ul><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Identity theft<\/span><\/li><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Fraudulent websites<\/span><\/li><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Payment scams<\/span><\/li><\/ul><p><b>Global e-commerce trends:<\/b><\/p><ul><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The Asia-Pacific region remains the largest e-commerce market<\/span><\/li><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Latin America is noted as the fastest-growing region<\/span><\/li><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">India&#8217;s e-commerce industry is projected to grow at 27% annually to reach $163 billion this year<\/span><\/li><\/ul><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">As more people opt for the ease of buying from their devices, cybersecurity concerns grow. According to recent reports,<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/aag-it.com\/the-latest-cyber-crime-statistics\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">cyberattacks on e-commerce platforms<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> are steadily climbing, creating an urgent need for increased awareness and protection.\u00a0<\/span><\/p><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">With<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/moneyhub.ee\/en\/useful\/articles\/online-fraud\/\"> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">hackers constantly evolving their techniques<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, it&#8217;s essential to stay one step ahead by recognising<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/moneyhub.ee\/kasulik\/artiklid\/online-pettuste-kaitse\/\"> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">common online threats<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> before they compromise your safety. Scammers often use attractive promotions to lure customers into fraudulent schemes, so be cautious of deals that seem too good to be true.<\/span><\/p><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">That&#8217;s why MoneyHub has decided to share actionable tips and strategies for staying safe when shopping online.\u00a0<\/span><\/p><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">From recognising phishing scams to ensuring your payment information is secure, you&#8217;ll learn what to watch out for and how to better protect yourself whilst enjoying online shopping.<\/span><\/p><h2><b>The Estonian situation: fraud on the rise<\/b><\/h2><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Estonia has not been immune to the global surge in online fraud. Recent data paints a concerning picture:<\/span><\/p><p><b>2023 fraud statistics:<\/b><\/p><ul><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><a href=\"https:\/\/news.err.ee\/1609522354\/crime-in-estonia-rises-4-on-year-fraud-up-25\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Fraud cases surged by 25%, contributing to a 4% overall rise in crime<\/span><\/a><\/li><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.eestipank.ee\/en\/press\/estonian-payment-forum-searched-ways-preventing-payment-fraud-16012025\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">18,300 incidents of card fraud using Estonian bank cards<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.eestipank.ee\/en\/press\/estonian-payment-forum-searched-ways-preventing-payment-fraud-16012025\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">\u20ac2.6 million lost to card fraud criminals<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.eestipank.ee\/en\/press\/estonian-payment-forum-searched-ways-preventing-payment-fraud-16012025\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">5,800 payment order transactions affected by fraud, totalling \u20ac10.6 million<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><a href=\"https:\/\/news.err.ee\/1609073513\/andrus-hiiepuu-cyber-fraud-costing-people-millions\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Over \u20ac3 million lost in the first six months alone<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li><\/ul><p><b>2024 trends:<\/b><\/p><ul><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.ria.ee\/en\/news\/october-cyberspace-estonians-lost-large-sums-money-due-phishing-and-fraud\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">During the first ten months, cyber incidents reached 4,950\u2014an 88% increase<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li><\/ul><p><b>Evolving threats:<\/b><\/p><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The methods criminals use are becoming increasingly sophisticated.\u00a0<\/span><\/p><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Police now warn that scammers use artificial intelligence to make phone calls in Estonian, imitating people the victims know and using<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/moneyhub.ee\/kasulik\/petukonede-telefoninumbrid\/\"> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">local phone numbers<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. The risk is particularly high on platforms like Facebook Marketplace, where fake advertisements, fake profiles, and money extortion schemes under the pretext of &#8220;reservation&#8221; or &#8220;courier delivery&#8221; are common.<\/span><\/p><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Estonian authorities emphasise that being careful and checking seller reviews remains critically important in<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/moneyhub.ee\/ru\/%D0%BD%D0%BE%D0%B2%D0%BE%D1%81%D1%82%D0%B8\/%D0%BE%D0%B1%D0%BD%D0%BE%D0%B2%D0%BB%D0%B5%D0%BD%D0%B8%D0%B5-%D0%B8%D0%BD%D1%84%D0%BE%D1%80%D0%BC%D0%B0%D1%86%D0%B8%D0%B8-%D0%BE-%D0%BC%D0%BE%D1%88%D0%B5%D0%BD%D0%BD%D0%B8%D1%87%D0%B5%D1%81%D1%82\/\"> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">combating this growing threat<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.<\/span><\/p><h2><b>Is it possible to be 100% safe when shopping online?<\/b><\/h2><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Whilst online shopping offers convenience, it&#8217;s important to recognise that no system is completely foolproof.\u00a0<\/span><\/p><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The reality is that being 100% safe when shopping online is impossible.\u00a0<\/span><\/p><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Cybercriminals are continually finding new ways to exploit vulnerabilities, and even the most secure websites can be targeted.\u00a0<\/span><\/p><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">There are, however, best practices to make your online shopping experience much safer.<\/span><\/p><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">By following good security practices, you can significantly reduce your exposure to potential threats. Using<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/blumint.co\/blog\/importance-long-strong-secure-passwords\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">strong, unique passwords<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> for each of your online accounts is essential\u2014never use the same password across multiple accounts, as this increases the risk if one password is compromised. Enabling multi-factor authentication, especially two-factor authentication (2FA), adds an extra layer of protection by requiring you to confirm your identity with a secondary code, such as one sent to your mobile device.\u00a0<\/span><\/p><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Shopping on reputable websites with secure payment methods is just a few steps that can minimise your risk. It&#8217;s also wise to regularly monitor your accounts for suspicious activity and ensure your devices are up to date with the latest security patches.<\/span><\/p><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The key to staying safe online is finding the right balance between convenience and security.\u00a0<\/span><\/p><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Whilst it might seem easier to reuse passwords or save payment information for future purchases, using the same password for multiple accounts can \u2014 in many cases \u2014 open the door to cyber threats. Being proactive with your security measures may require a little extra effort, but it will protect your sensitive information and give you peace of mind during your online shopping experience.<\/span><\/p><h2><b>Am I more likely to be scammed online during holiday periods?<\/b><\/h2><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">In short, yes.\u00a0<\/span><\/p><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">You are more likely to encounter scams during the holiday shopping season. It should be noted that this doesn&#8217;t mean you&#8217;re necessarily safer shopping online during non-holiday seasons; it just means malicious actors typically increase their attempts and the number of targets during periods when more people are shopping online. Simply put, as e-commerce activity surges around the holidays, so do online scams.<\/span><\/p><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Cybercriminals take advantage of the rush, knowing that consumers are more likely to overlook suspicious activity whilst hunting for the best deals.<\/span><\/p><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Holiday-related scams are diverse and are becoming increasingly sophisticated.\u00a0<\/span><\/p><ul><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Fake websites that mimic legitimate retailers can trick shoppers into entering payment details or personal information, only for their money to disappear.\u00a0<\/span><\/li><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Phishing emails offering &#8220;exclusive&#8221; discounts often contain malicious links that, once clicked, can compromise your devices. Scammers also use fake promotions to lure victims, so be wary of deals that seem too good to be true, as these promotions may be part of fraudulent schemes.\u00a0<\/span><\/li><\/ul><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">In addition to phishing emails, cybercriminals frequently send suspicious links through messages and text messages, including SMS and social media posts, to deceive shoppers and steal personal information or money. Then, there are the all-too-familiar &#8220;too good to be true&#8221; deals, which lure shoppers with steep discounts on high-demand products, only for the goods to never arrive.<\/span><\/p><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">To stay safe during the holiday season, be cautious with unfamiliar websites, avoid clicking links in emails from unknown senders, and always verify the legitimacy of deals before making a purchase. By staying vigilant, you can protect yourself from holiday scams and still enjoy stress-free online shopping.<\/span><\/p><h2><b>How social media ads manipulate you with FOMO tactics<\/b><\/h2><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Social media advertising has become one of the most powerful tools for online retailers\u2014and unfortunately, for scammers as well.\u00a0<\/span><\/p><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Platforms like<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/moneyhub.ee\"> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Facebook<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, Instagram, and TikTok are flooded with advertisements that use<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/moneyhub.ee\/en\/news\/special-reports\/social-media-causing-debt\/\"> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">fear of missing out (FOMO) tactics<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> to pressure you into making immediate purchases.<\/span><\/p><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">You&#8217;ve likely seen them:\u00a0<\/span><\/p><p><b><i>&#8220;Only 3 left in stock!&#8221; &#8220;Sale ends in 2 hours!&#8221; &#8220;Limited time offer\u2014buy now!&#8221;\u00a0<\/i><\/b><\/p><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">These urgent messages are designed to bypass your rational decision-making and trigger an emotional response.<\/span><\/p><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The problem runs deeper than just pushy marketing.\u00a0<\/span><\/p><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Many of these advertisements promote products from companies that claim to be based in Europe, lending an air of legitimacy and quality to their offerings. However, the reality is often quite different. These &#8220;European&#8221; businesses frequently operate as drop-shipping operations, selling cheap products manufactured in China that bear little resemblance to the polished images shown in the advertisements.<\/span><\/p><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">When the package finally arrives\u2014often weeks later than promised\u2014customers discover low-quality items that don&#8217;t match the description, are poorly made, or sometimes don&#8217;t work at all.\u00a0<\/span><\/p><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The advertised &#8220;premium leather handbag&#8221; turns out to be plastic. The &#8220;designer watch&#8221; stops working after a few days. The &#8220;high-tech gadget&#8221; is a cheap imitation with none of the promised features.<\/span><\/p><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Making matters worse, many of these companies make returns nearly impossible.\u00a0<\/span><\/p><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">They may require you to ship items back to China at your own expense (often costing more than the product itself), or they&#8217;ll offer a partial refund on the condition that you keep the faulty item. Some simply stop responding to customer complaints altogether.<\/span><\/p><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Before clicking &#8220;buy now&#8221; on that tempting social media advertisement, take these precautions:<\/span><\/p><ul><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Check<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.trustpilot.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Trustpilot<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> and other review platforms for honest customer feedback about the company<\/span><\/li><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Search for the company name along with words like &#8220;scam,&#8221; &#8220;fake,&#8221; or &#8220;complaint&#8221;<\/span><\/li><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Look carefully at the website&#8217;s &#8220;About Us&#8221; and &#8220;Contact&#8221; pages\u2014legitimate businesses provide real addresses and contact information<\/span><\/li><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Be suspicious of prices that seem impossibly low compared to similar products elsewhere<\/span><\/li><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Read the returns policy thoroughly before purchasing<\/span><\/li><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Consider whether the urgency is real or manufactured to pressure you<\/span><\/li><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Reverse image search product photos to see if they&#8217;ve been stolen from legitimate retailers<\/span><\/li><\/ul><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Remember: if an advertisement is pressuring you to buy immediately, that&#8217;s often a red flag. Legitimate businesses don&#8217;t need to use high-pressure tactics because they stand behind the quality of their products.<\/span><\/p><h2><b>How do I know if my online payment is secure?<\/b><\/h2><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">One of the most important steps in ensuring your payment is secure when shopping online is to verify that the website uses SSL\/TLS encryption.\u00a0<\/span><\/p><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">This technology protects the information you send, such as your payment details, from interception by cybercriminals. To check whether a website is secure, look for &#8220;HTTPS&#8221; at the beginning of the URL and a padlock or a lock symbol in the address bar. If you see these indicators, the site is encrypting your data, providing an additional layer of security.<\/span><\/p><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Using secure payment methods is another crucial aspect of staying safe online.\u00a0<\/span><\/p><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Credit cards and trusted payment processors offer protections that are not available with other forms of payment. Most credit card companies provide fraud detection and allow for chargebacks if something goes wrong with your purchase. Payment platforms like PayPal also offer buyer protection, adding peace of mind.<\/span><\/p><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">On the other hand, it&#8217;s always wise to avoid direct bank transfers, debit cards, or cash for online shopping. These methods offer limited recourse if you fall victim to fraud, as your money is instantly withdrawn directly from your bank account or handed over with fewer protections. If your debit card is compromised or used fraudulently, contact your bank immediately to report unauthorised transactions and seek guidance on recovering your funds.<\/span><\/p><p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.nerdwallet.com\/credit-cards\/learn\/credit-card-vs-debit-card-safer-online-purchases\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Here&#8217;s an excellent discussion<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> explaining why debit cards should be avoided when making online purchases.<\/span><\/p><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">When checking out, only fill in the mandatory details required, such as your address and contact information, to streamline the process and reduce risk.\u00a0<\/span><\/p><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Avoid sharing unnecessary bank details, as cyber criminals may use fake websites or malicious links to trick you into revealing sensitive information. Sticking to credit cards or established payment processing platforms is a smart way to keep your financial information secure whilst shopping online.<\/span><\/p><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">For more information on<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/moneyhub.ee\/en\/investments\/sports-betting\/\"> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">protecting yourself from online fraud<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, or to learn more about<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/moneyhub.ee\/investeeringud\/spordikihlvedude-tegemine\/\"> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">spordiennustused<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, visit<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/moneyhub.ee\/en\/useful\/articles\/online-fraud\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> MoneyHub&#8217;s guide to online fraud prevention<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.<\/span><\/p><h2><b>Should I use a VPN when shopping online?<\/b><\/h2><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Virtual Private Networks, or VPNs, are becoming much more common in the consumer world.\u00a0<\/span><\/p><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">A VPN is a tool that helps secure your internet connection by encrypting the data you send and receive online. When you connect to a VPN, it creates a secure &#8220;tunnel&#8221; between your device\u2014such as your computer or phone\u2014and the website or service you&#8217;re using, making it much harder for hackers or other third parties to intercept your personal information. This can be particularly useful when shopping online, as it adds an extra layer of protection to your transactions, especially if you have no option but to use a public Wi-Fi network to make a purchase.<\/span><\/p><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">One of the main benefits of using a VPN is that it encrypts your entire connection, which can be crucial when shopping on unfamiliar networks, such as at coffee shops or airports.\u00a0<\/span><\/p><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Public Wi-Fi is notoriously vulnerable to cyberattacks, and a VPN can help protect your sensitive data, like credit card numbers and login credentials, from being stolen. This risk is even higher when using shopping apps on your phone or computer over unsecured networks, as these apps often store personal and payment information.<\/span><\/p><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Although a VPN is a valuable tool, it&#8217;s not a cure-all for online shopping safety \u2014 remember, there&#8217;s no such thing as being 100% secure.\u00a0<\/span><\/p><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">VPNs cannot protect you from scams, phishing emails, or insecure websites. Even with a VPN, it&#8217;s essential to check that the website you&#8217;re shopping on uses SSL\/TLS encryption (look for &#8220;HTTPS&#8221; and the padlock or tuner symbol that we discussed above) and to follow other good security practices.\u00a0<\/span><\/p><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">A VPN adds security to your connection, but it won&#8217;t shield you from malicious websites or fraudulent transactions.<\/span><\/p><h2><b>What are the most common online shopping scams?<\/b><\/h2><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Scammers are constantly finding new ways to trick people and unsuspecting online shoppers. Some of the most common online shopping scams target both your money and personal information, so it&#8217;s important to know what to watch for and stay vigilant.\u00a0<\/span><\/p><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Scammers often focus on popular items like jewellery and clothing, making these products frequent targets in fraudulent schemes.<\/span><\/p><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">One major scam involves fake websites that are designed to look like legitimate retailers.\u00a0<\/span><\/p><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">These sites may offer popular items at unbelievable prices, but once you place an order, either counterfeit products arrive, or nothing shows up at all. Always verify a website&#8217;s legitimacy by checking for &#8220;HTTPS&#8221; in the URL, reading third-party reviews on platforms like Trustpilot, and avoiding deals that seem too good to be true.<\/span><\/p><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Another common threat comes from phishing emails that appear to be from reputable retailers. These emails, as well as other types of messages such as texts and social media posts, often contain suspicious links to fake login pages or malicious sites designed to steal your personal or financial information.\u00a0<\/span><\/p><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Before clicking any links, examine the sender&#8217;s email address and the message content for inconsistencies, and visit the retailer&#8217;s official site directly instead of clicking a link in the email if you&#8217;re unsure.<\/span><\/p><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Finally, non-delivery and non-payment fraud are frequent during high-demand shopping periods. These scams often occur during fake sales, where a shopper makes a purchase but never receives the item, or sellers ship goods but never get paid. To protect yourself, use secure payment methods that offer buyer protection, such as credit cards or trusted payment platforms.<\/span><\/p><p><b><i>Note: Even legitimate-looking sales can be fraudulent, so always double-check the details before making a purchase and consult Trustpilot for independent customer reviews.<\/i><\/b><\/p><h2><b>Is it safe to use public wifi to shop online?<\/b><\/h2><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Shopping online whilst connected to public Wi-Fi can pose significant risks and should be <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">avoided unless absolutely necessary.\u00a0<\/span><\/p><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Public wifi networks, such as those in coffee shops, libraries, airports, or hotels, are often unsecured \u2014 making them prime targets for cybercriminals. One of the biggest threats when using public networks is data interception, in which hackers can capture the information you send over the network, including your payment details and personal information.\u00a0<\/span><\/p><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Another similar method used by malicious actors on public Wi-Fi is a<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.imperva.com\/learn\/application-security\/man-in-the-middle-attack-mitm\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">man-in-the-middle attack (MITM)<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, in which a hacker intercepts communication between your device and the website you&#8217;re using, potentially altering or stealing your data. This risk is especially high if you are shopping on your phone or through an app whilst on public Wi-Fi, as these are common ways people access online stores and make purchases.<\/span><\/p><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If you have no option but to shop online whilst connected to public Wi-Fi, there are ways to minimise the risks. One of the most effective methods is using the aforementioned tool, a VPN, which encrypts your internet connection and helps protect your data from prying eyes.<\/span><\/p><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">For maximum safety, the best alternative is to use your mobile data, if available, or shop whilst connected to a secured private Wi-Fi network at home or in another trusted environment. These options provide much stronger protection and reduce the likelihood that your information will be compromised during an online shopping session.\u00a0<\/span><\/p><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">By being cautious about the networks you use, you can better protect yourself from cyber threats whilst shopping online.<\/span><\/p><h2><b>Is it safe to save my payment information on websites?<\/b><\/h2><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Saving your payment information on websites for future purchases can be convenient, but it&#8217;s important to weigh the risks and benefits before deciding whether it&#8217;s worth the time saved by not manually entering your payment details.\u00a0<\/span><\/p><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Protecting your personal details is crucial, as a data breach could expose not only your payment information but also sensitive personal information stored in your online accounts.<\/span><\/p><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">One of the primary benefits is the obvious convenience factor.\u00a0<\/span><\/p><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Storing your payment details allows for faster checkouts, especially if you frequently shop on the same site. However, this convenience comes with significant risks.\u00a0<\/span><\/p><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Data breaches have become commonplace in recent years, with reports indicating that more than<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.varonis.com\/blog\/data-breach-statistics#:~:text=days%20(IBM).-,Crucial%20information,3%2C200%20in%202023%20(Statista).\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">3,200 occurred in the U.S. in 2023<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. To put this into perspective, the number of reported U.S. data breaches in 2012 was only 447.\u00a0<\/span><\/p><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If the website where you&#8217;ve saved your payment information is compromised, your financial and personal details could be exposed. In addition to data breaches, account takeovers are another growing threat. If a hacker gains access to your account, they could make unauthorised purchases using your saved payment information.<\/span><\/p><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">A safer alternative is to use trusted payment wallets or services like<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.apple.com\/wallet\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Apple Wallet<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> or<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/wallet.google\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Google Wallet<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, which use tokenisation \u2014 essentially, a form of encryption \u2014 to secure your information. These platforms replace your card details with a unique, encrypted code for each transaction, meaning your actual card number is never shared with the retailer. This added layer of security makes it much harder for cybercriminals to access your financial information, even if the retailer experiences a data breach.<\/span><\/p><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Whilst saving your payment information might make online shopping easier, opting for a more secure method, such as a digital wallet, can provide stronger protection for your financial data.<\/span><\/p><h2><b>Online shopping tips from the cybersecurity experts + free tools<\/b><\/h2><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">MoneyHub experts discussed key tips for both individuals and organisations who buy or sell online, so let&#8217;s face it, there is advice here that applies to all of us. Here&#8217;s a summary of the most frequently touted tips:<\/span><\/p><p><b>Online shoppers:<\/b><\/p><ul><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Access websites by typing the name into the browser, rather than clicking links in emails \u2014 if the deal is that good, it will be featured prominently on the official website.<\/span><\/li><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Be sceptical of &#8216;too good to be true deals or products that are proving difficult to find elsewhere.<\/span><\/li><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Carefully check the website (domain) name and be wary of &#8216;lookalike&#8217; names. For example, an r and n together (rn) can look very similar to &#8220;m&#8221; when you&#8217;re rushing to secure that deal.<\/span><\/li><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Using credit cards to make purchases online often provides additional protection against fraud \u2014 avoid direct bank transfers, debit cards, and advance payments.<\/span><\/li><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Report any suspicious activity immediately to your bank and the appropriate authority where you live \u2014 your payment details may be cloned and used to withdraw money or buy goods elsewhere.<\/span><\/li><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Never use public Wi-Fi when making an online purchase (if you have no choice, access the website via a VPN), and make sure you have antivirus and<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/quad9.net\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">DNS protection in place<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.<\/span><\/li><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Check that the seller has a physical address listed, contact details, terms and conditions, and a return policy.<\/span><\/li><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Check seller reviews on Trustpilot and across different platforms, check the age of the website, and ensure it uses SSL (https:\/\/ and the padlock or lock icon \u2014 the &#8220;s&#8221; stands for secure, but this still does not guarantee the seller is good).<\/span><\/li><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Type the company\/website name and &#8220;scam&#8221; or &#8220;fake&#8221; into a search engine to see what comes back.<\/span><\/li><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Contact the seller by phone, ask to see a video, or meet in person at a public location if buying from auction sites.<\/span><\/li><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Slow it down \u2014 there is no need to rush into anything, and if you&#8217;re not sure, don&#8217;t do it \u2014 trust your instincts.<\/span><\/li><\/ul><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Note: Always read all terms and conditions before making a purchase to fully understand your rights and obligations.<\/span><\/p><p><b>Online sellers:<\/b><\/p><ul><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Ensure your website and systems are up to date with the latest patches \u2014 use a well-known and trusted platform if you do not have in-house IT skills.<\/span><\/li><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Use a firewall and security software, monitor logs, conduct penetration tests, and perform regular security scans.<\/span><\/li><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Use encryption for secure communication (SSL certification).<\/span><\/li><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Limit access to customer data by third parties.<\/span><\/li><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If you think a fraudster may be impersonating your website, take screenshots and report it to the relevant authorities.<\/span><\/li><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Consider creating your own online store to have more control over your branding, customer relationships, and profit margins. Building your own store allows you to create and submit product listings directly, giving you flexibility and ownership over your business.<\/span><\/li><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Do not rely solely on third-party marketplaces; having your own store is vital for long-term growth and profit retention.<\/span><\/li><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Understand the cost and fees associated with each sale, including what you pay to the platform or marketplace. Note that fees can vary based on the platform, product category, and fulfilment method.<\/span><\/li><\/ul><h2><b>Free tools and services to help you stay safe when shopping online<\/b><\/h2><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Just as cyber criminals have a large set of tools at their disposal, so do you as a privacy-centric shopper or seller. If you aren&#8217;t already using the trusted platforms listed below:<\/span><\/p><ul><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><a href=\"https:\/\/globalcyberalliance.org\/cyberflex\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">CyberFlex<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> \u2013 Powered by the Global Cyber Alliance and sponsored by Amazon, CyberFlex provides a safe space to explore, learn, and share experiences around cybersecurity and online scams. CyberFlex is particularly aimed at Gen Z young adults (ages 18-25) and contains targeted information including free tools, interactive guides, and text alerts to prevent, mitigate, report, and recover from scams and other cyber risks.<\/span><\/li><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><a href=\"https:\/\/gcatoolkit.org\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Global Cyber Alliance Toolkits<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> \u2013 Offer an impressively large collection of free tools and resources for individuals, businesses, and IT professionals to strengthen their cybersecurity. GCA&#8217;s Toolkits are often lauded for their easy-to-follow, step-by-step guides that help users protect against online threats, manage vulnerabilities, and enhance digital security practices.<\/span><\/li><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.quad9.net\/about\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Quad9<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> \u2013 Quad9 is a free, public DNS security service that protects users from malicious websites by blocking access to known threats. It enhances internet safety by helping filter out harmful domains and provides privacy by not storing users&#8217; personal data.<\/span><\/li><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><a href=\"https:\/\/pausetake9.org\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Take9<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> \u2013 This campaign encourages people to pause and take nine seconds to think before they click, download, or share.<\/span><\/li><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><a href=\"https:\/\/apwg.eu\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">APWG<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> \u2013 A global coalition focused on combating cybercrime, specifically phishing attacks and related online threats. It provides resources, research, and opportunities for collaboration for individuals, businesses, and governments to prevent and respond to phishing and other forms of cyber fraud.<\/span><\/li><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.europol.europa.eu\/operations-services-and-innovation\/public-awareness-and-prevention-guides\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Europol&#8217;s Public Awareness &amp; Prevention Guides<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> \u2013 Europol provides resources and advice to help individuals and businesses protect themselves from various types of crime, including cybercrime and fraud. These free guides aim to raise awareness, educate the public, and offer practical tips to prevent becoming victims of criminal activity.<\/span><\/li><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><a href=\"https:\/\/cyberreadinessinstitute.org\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Cyber Readiness Institute<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> \u2013 This organisation empowers small and medium-sized businesses to improve their cybersecurity practices through free resources, tools, and training.<\/span><\/li><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><a href=\"https:\/\/fightcybercrime.org\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Cybercrime Support Network<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> \u2013 This resource hub provides practical guidance for individuals, families, and small businesses to defend against cybercrime. It offers step-by-step instructions for preventing, identifying, and recovering from various online threats, such as identity theft, fraud, and ransomware attacks.<\/span><\/li><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.getsafeonline.org\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Get Safe Online<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> \u2013 A UK-based organisation that provides free, expert advice to individuals and businesses on staying safe and secure online. It covers a wide range of topics, including online shopping, privacy, fraud prevention, and cybersecurity best practices.<\/span><\/li><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.cisa.gov\/secure-our-world\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Secure Our World<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> \u2013 The US&#8217;s Cybersecurity &amp; Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) provides information on four easy ways to stay safe online and offers resources in multiple languages.<\/span><\/li><\/ul><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If you suspect a scam involving cash or packages sent through the mail, contact the USPS Postal Inspection Service for assistance in intercepting or recovering items.<\/span><\/p><h2><b>The takeaway | how to stay safe shopping online<\/b><\/h2><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Staying safe whilst shopping online is more critical than ever, as cybercriminals continue to target unsuspecting shoppers.\u00a0<\/span><\/p><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Although no method can guarantee complete protection, following best practices such as using secure websites, trusted payment methods, and VPNs can significantly reduce your risk.<\/span><\/p><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">By remaining cautious, regularly updating your security habits, and using available resources, you can protect yourself from online threats and enjoy a safer shopping experience. With the right knowledge and tools, navigating the world of online shopping becomes a lot more secure.<\/span><\/p><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">For more personal finance advice and tools, visit<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/moneyhub.ee\/en\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> MoneyHub Estonia<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.\u00a0<\/span><\/p><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If you&#8217;re considering using a credit card for safer online shopping, check out<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/moneyhub.ee\/en\/money\/credit-cards\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> MoneyHub&#8217;s credit card comparison guide<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. To protect yourself from scams, review the list of<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/moneyhub.ee\/en\/useful\/scam-phone-numbers\/\"> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">scam phone numbers<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> and tips on avoiding financial fraud.<\/span><\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-adf47ca e-flex e-con-boxed e-con e-child\" data-id=\"adf47ca\" data-element_type=\"container\" data-e-type=\"container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"e-con-inner\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Learn how to stay safe shopping online. Discover online fraud prevention tips, secure payment methods and protect yourself from scams with expert advice.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":23668,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"om_disable_all_campaigns":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[21],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-23666","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-articles"],"acf":[],"blog_post_layout_featured_media_urls":{"thumbnail":["https:\/\/moneyhub.ee\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/How-to-stay-safe-whilst-online-shopping-150x150.jpg",150,150,true],"full":["https:\/\/moneyhub.ee\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/How-to-stay-safe-whilst-online-shopping.jpg",800,450,false]},"categories_names":{"21":{"name":"Articles","link":"https:\/\/moneyhub.ee\/en\/category\/useful\/articles\/"}},"tags_names":[],"comments_number":"0","rttpg_featured_image_url":{"full":["https:\/\/moneyhub.ee\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/How-to-stay-safe-whilst-online-shopping.jpg",800,450,false],"landscape":["https:\/\/moneyhub.ee\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/How-to-stay-safe-whilst-online-shopping.jpg",800,450,false],"portraits":["https:\/\/moneyhub.ee\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/How-to-stay-safe-whilst-online-shopping.jpg",800,450,false],"thumbnail":["https:\/\/moneyhub.ee\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/How-to-stay-safe-whilst-online-shopping-150x150.jpg",150,150,true],"medium":["https:\/\/moneyhub.ee\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/How-to-stay-safe-whilst-online-shopping-300x169.jpg",300,169,true],"large":["https:\/\/moneyhub.ee\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/How-to-stay-safe-whilst-online-shopping-1024x576.jpg",800,450,true],"1536x1536":["https:\/\/moneyhub.ee\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/How-to-stay-safe-whilst-online-shopping-1536x864.jpg",1536,864,true],"2048x2048":["https:\/\/moneyhub.ee\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/How-to-stay-safe-whilst-online-shopping-2048x1152.jpg",2048,1152,true]},"rttpg_author":{"display_name":"Simon Grey","author_link":"https:\/\/moneyhub.ee\/en\/author\/admin\/"},"rttpg_comment":0,"rttpg_category":"<a href=\"https:\/\/moneyhub.ee\/en\/category\/useful\/articles\/\" rel=\"category tag\">Articles<\/a>","rttpg_excerpt":"Learn how to stay safe shopping online. Discover online fraud prevention tips, secure payment methods and protect yourself from scams with expert advice.","_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/moneyhub.ee\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/23666","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/moneyhub.ee\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/moneyhub.ee\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/moneyhub.ee\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/moneyhub.ee\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=23666"}],"version-history":[{"count":5,"href":"https:\/\/moneyhub.ee\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/23666\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":23682,"href":"https:\/\/moneyhub.ee\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/23666\/revisions\/23682"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/moneyhub.ee\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/23668"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/moneyhub.ee\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=23666"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/moneyhub.ee\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=23666"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/moneyhub.ee\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=23666"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}