Shopping online can be a great way to score deals on holiday gifts. However, it can also be a place to get your identity stolen. There are a number of people who prey on the innocent during this time of the year and it pays to be super conscious of your actions. If you’re worried about shopping online, here are five tips for safe holiday shopping on the web.

Shop With Stores You Know and Trust

It can be easy to be tempted by a store that you’ve never heard of that has the latest and greatest toy for half price, but remember, if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is. Instead, stick with stores you know and have come to trust. Many brick and mortar stores have online stores. Not only can you sometimes find great deals, but you still have the comfort of shopping in your own home.

Consider Virtual Debit Cards

Many banks now make it possible for shoppers to shop online without using their actual debit card number. This means that your bank account is protected against fraudulent activity. If your bank doesn’t offer this service, another option is to use a prepaid credit card. That way hackers have no way to access your bank account.

Use PayPal

Over the years PayPal has become a powerhouse with online shoppers and retailers. PayPal is the perfect option because it allows you to pay without giving your financial information and if there is a problem with the purchase, your can dispute it through PayPal to get your money back.

Look for Secure Sites

It may seem old school, but one of the easiest ways to know a site is secure is to look for a lock at the bottom of your browser window. This tells you that the page you are entering your payment information on is secure.

Never Send Your Information Through Email

Some stores ask for shoppers to email their orders to them. You should never under any circumstances give your financial information out through email. Email is not secure. If this is a company you know and trust, call the company instead.

While shopping online can be a great way to score holiday deals, it can also be risky. Thankfully, there are several things you can do keep yourself safe. Remember to shop with companies you know and trust. You should also use virtual debit cards or PayPal whenever possible. Last, but not least, only enter financial information on secure sites and never through email.