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Online shopping may be the most useful feature to come out of the internet so far. After all, it&rsquo;s convenient, offers better prices and flexible payment options, and you don&rsquo;t have to get off the sofa to find great products.
However, for beginners, it can be challenging to find the right online shops while <a href="https://communityfibre.co.uk/community-connect/blog/how-to-spot-an-online-scam-age-uk">steering clear of scams</a>.
In this guide to getting started with online shopping, we&rsquo;ll cover the essentials, like how to:
<ul>
<li>
<a href="#choose" rel="follow">Choose the right vendor</a>
</li>
<li>
<a href="#staysafe" rel="follow">Stay safe while online shopping</a>
</li>
<li>
<a href="#find" rel="follow">Find the right items</a>
</li>
<li>
<a href="#additems" rel="follow">Add items to your basket</a>
</li>
<li>
<a href="#time" rel="follow">Ensure everything arrives on time</a>
</li>
<li>
<a href="#pay" rel="follow">Safely and securely pay for your items online</a>
</li>
</ul>
If any of that sounds confusing, don&rsquo;t worry &mdash; we&rsquo;ll explain on the way.
 
<h2>How to shop online: 6 steps to get started</h2>
Being able to shop online means you can shop at any time, at multiple stores around the world, and can receive almost any item you need right to your doorstep. All you need is a <a href="https://communityfibre.co.uk/#residential-packages">good broadband connection</a>, and to follow these steps:
<h3 id="choose">1. Choose a trustworthy online shop</h3>
Just like you wouldn&rsquo;t shop at a brick-and-mortar store with broken windows and missing stock, it&rsquo;s important to choose a secure online store as well. Safe websites often have a padlock in the browser bar, or when you click &lsquo;view site information&rsquo; in the top left of the bar.&nbsp;
<img src="https://cdn.buttercms.com/nCJp3CDRaO0GGqYMZhvb" alt="The padlock in the browser shows a website has a secure connection." width="405" height="393">
To determine if you&rsquo;ll find quality goods, you should also look at the reviews. Don&rsquo;t just look at reviews on the store website, but use third parties like <a href="https://uk.trustpilot.com/review/communityfibre.co.uk">Trustpilot</a> to see experiences from real customers.
The sites below are known for their high product quality. Most also offer buyer protection for certain payments, so your money will be refunded if you don&rsquo;t receive your order:
<ul>
<li>
<a href="https://www.johnlewis.com/">John Lewis</a> &mdash; For high-quality products across homeware, fashion, and technology departments
</li>
<li>
<a href="https://www.amazon.co.uk/">Amazon</a> &mdash; For almost any product, from food to clothes, books and electronics
</li>
<li>
<a href="https://www.marksandspencer.com/">Marks &amp; Spencer</a> &mdash; For clothing, food, or home goods
</li>
<li>
<a href="https://www.asos.com/">ASOS</a> &mdash; For clothing and shoes
</li>
<li>
<a href="https://www.currys.co.uk/">Currys</a> &mdash; For electronics and household appliances
</li>
<li>
<a href="https://www.boots.com/?srsltid=AfmBOoq-azrrQVcTEkOhITNhzeCEfPoWy6zbL3Lz5aDfd3kUwV58S_ln">Boots</a> &mdash; For anything you&rsquo;d usually buy at the pharmacy
</li>
</ul>
Depending on the vendor you choose, you may need to create an account on their site before making purchases. If that&rsquo;s the case, be sure to use a <a href="https://communityfibre.co.uk/community-connect/blog/what-is-password-security">strong password</a> and email address you can easily access.&nbsp;
<div align="center">
<table border="1" style="border-collapse: collapse; width: 42.5883%; height: 82.8403px; border-width: 1px; border-spacing: 2px; background-color: #f4f4f4;"><colgroup> <col style="width: 100%;"> </colgroup>
<tbody>
<tr style="height: 82.8403px;">
<td style="text-align: center;">
Top tip: When shopping online, remember that returns and refunds are not always possible. It&rsquo;s also impossible to &lsquo;try before you buy&rsquo;, so always double-check any small print or sizing information to be sure you&rsquo;re making the right decision.
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
</div>
<h3 id="staysafe">2. Stay safe while you shop online</h3>
If you don&rsquo;t take steps to <a href="https://communityfibre.co.uk/community-connect/blog/how-to-avoid-online-scams">protect yourself online</a>, you can run into some nasty risks, such as:
<ul>
<li>
Identity theft
</li>
<li>
Lost money
</li>
<li>
Data breaches
</li>
<li>
Misplaced products that don&rsquo;t arrive
</li>
<li>
Low quality products you can&rsquo;t use
</li>
</ul>
To combat this, you should always install antivirus software such as <a href="https://communityfibre.co.uk/norton">Norton&trade; 360 Premium</a> to <a href="https://communityfibre.co.uk/community-connect/blog/what-is-device-security">keep your devices safe</a> from malware and viruses. You should also:
<h4>Use a secure vendor</h4>
Aside from looking for the padlock on the browser bar, a simple way to tell if a website is secure is to look at the URL. If it&rsquo;s safe to use, the URL will start with &lsquo;https&rsquo; &mdash; the S stands for &lsquo;secure&rsquo;.
<img src="https://cdn.buttercms.com/3dCZ5xbIQImRlvQPWP3w" alt="https can be seen for the Community Fibre website address">
<h4>Always check the reviews</h4>
A quick Google search will usually tell you if an online shop is secure or not. Avoid trusting reviews on the website itself, as some fake stores will simply make up reviews and show these as if they are real.
Instead, look for reviews on trustworthy third-party sites, or check the reviews for individual items if you&rsquo;re using a marketplace like Amazon.
<img src="https://cdn.buttercms.com/zBgXVK7vSQOKmlrx6KA3" alt="A five-star review for Community Fibre on TrustPilot.">
(Source: <a href="https://uk.trustpilot.com/reviews/670ea03eb20f32e4d0e632f2">Trustpilot</a>)
If you&rsquo;re using a marketplace like <a href="https://www.ebay.co.uk/">Ebay</a> or <a href="https://www.etsy.com/uk/">Etsy</a>, you should also check the reviews for the seller you&rsquo;re considering, and if possible send them a message before you buy from them. This will help you decide if they are trustworthy or <a href="https://communityfibre.co.uk/press/uk-scamdemic-half-of-over-60s-put-off-surfing-the-web-due-to-rise-in-internet-scams">a potential scammer</a>.&nbsp;
<h4>Use a trustworthy payment service</h4>
When you use a trustworthy payment service, it adds an extra layer of protection between you and any vendor who may not be genuine.
For example, <a href="https://www.paypal.com/uk/webapps/mpp/paypal-safety-and-security">PayPal offers buyer protection</a> in the event that you never receive the item you ordered. Ebay, Etsy and Amazon are also known for their speedy customer service and refunds in the rare case that an order doesn&rsquo;t arrive or you receive the wrong item.
<h3 id="find">3. Search for the right items</h3>
Most websites make it easy to find what you&rsquo;re looking for, with a search bar and filters for sizes, colour, and sorting by price.
<img src="https://cdn.buttercms.com/MRbrMUJgQOeiNPiVFtFA" alt="Product filters and details which can be used when shopping online">
(Source: <a href="https://www.amazon.co.uk/">Amazon</a>)
The product description will typically include dimensions and sizing information, as well as describing the material and care instructions so you can avoid any unpleasant surprises when your product arrives. It&rsquo;s also worth checking the returns policy before you make any decisions, just in case there are any mistakes in the product description, or if the product isn&rsquo;t as you expected.
Finally, always check the product reviews to see if other people find the product to be satisfactory &mdash; or if they advise steering clear.
<h3 id="additems">4. Add items to your cart or basket</h3>
Once you&rsquo;ve decided what item is best, you&rsquo;ll need to select the colour, size, and quantity you&rsquo;ll need. Sometimes you can save money by subscribing to receive products regularly.&nbsp;
Once you&rsquo;re sure you&rsquo;ve selected the right item, simply add it to your basket and you&rsquo;re 80% there.&nbsp;
<div align="center">
<table border="1" style="border-collapse: collapse; width: 42.5883%; height: 73.0695px; border-width: 1px; border-spacing: 2px; background-color: #f4f4f4;"><colgroup> <col style="width: 100.051%;"> </colgroup>
<tbody>
<tr style="height: 73.0695px;">
<td style="text-align: center;">
Top tip: If you&rsquo;re not ready to buy the product just yet, you can bookmark the page. If you&rsquo;re extra-organised, most sites offer an option to add the item to a shopping or wish list, making it easy to find your favourites again.
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
</div>
<h3 id="time">5. Select your shipping times and preferences</h3>
With your items in your cart, it&rsquo;s time to check out. You&rsquo;ll need to add your shipping address and shipping method, as well as review your order details.
If you need your item by a certain date, it&rsquo;s worth checking when it&rsquo;s due to arrive. Standard shipping typically takes five days or more, while many sites offer expedited shipping within one to two business days, usually for an extra charge.
You&rsquo;ll typically receive communication when your order:
<ul>
<li>
Is confirmed and being prepared by the shop
</li>
<li>
Ships and is on its way to you
</li>
<li>
Is due to arrive
</li>
</ul>
<div align="center">
<table border="1" style="border-collapse: collapse; width: 42.5883%; height: 73.0695px; border-width: 1px; border-spacing: 2px; background-color: #f4f4f4;"><colgroup> <col style="width: 100.051%;"> </colgroup>
<tbody>
<tr style="height: 73.0695px;">
<td style="text-align: center;">
Top tip: Make sure delivery is scheduled for a date and time when you&rsquo;ll be in the house. This will avoid any delays. Don&rsquo;t worry if you make a mistake &mdash; some websites ensure that orders can be tracked or changed if you catch them quickly after placing your order, while others require you to cancel your order and re-do it.
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
</div>
<h3 id="pay">6. Pay for your items online</h3>
<img src="https://cdn.buttercms.com/E0LAWX4SHyVgXRoiaU05" alt="PayPal app on a mobile device." width="392" height="294" style="font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, 'Segoe UI', Roboto, Oxygen, Ubuntu, Cantarell, 'Open Sans', 'Helvetica Neue', sans-serif;">
There are several ways to pay for your items online:
<ul>
<li>
Credit/debit cards &mdash; These are the most common form of payment for online purchases, as they offer a good mix of convenience and security.
</li>
<li>
PayPal &mdash; This digital wallet enables you to safely store your payment information and buy items without giving your card information directly to a retailer.
</li>
<li>
Gift cards &mdash; Many online retailers accept gift cards as a form of payment, but these are often subject to certain rules and qualifications before you can use them.
</li>
</ul>
<div align="center">
<table border="1" style="border-collapse: collapse; width: 42.5883%; height: 97.0695px; border-width: 1px; border-spacing: 2px; background-color: #f4f4f4;"><colgroup><col style="width: 100.051%;"></colgroup>
<tbody>
<tr style="height: 97.0695px;">
<td style="text-align: center;">
Top tip: No matter which payment method you choose, make sure you check what buyer protections are in place. If you&rsquo;ve already made a payment and aren&rsquo;t sure if the seller was safe, keep an eye out for any suspicious or unexpected charges to your account, and report any unauthorised activity to your bank.
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
</div>
 
<h2>The benefits of online shopping</h2>
Why should you choose online shopping over visiting typical brick-and-mortar stores in person? For some, it&rsquo;s a case of not being able to leave the house, or not having time to visit stores within their normal opening hours. Most people choose online shopping for the following reasons:
<ul>
<li>
It&rsquo;s convenient &mdash; You don&rsquo;t need to leave your house, commute to the nearest shop, or deal with long lines and frustrating crowds.&nbsp;
</li>
<li>
It offers a wide product selection and easy comparisons &mdash; You can easily find good deals on exactly the item you&rsquo;re looking for. If you&rsquo;re not sure, you can compare prices and reviews for similar products. This also makes it great for finding suitable gifts on any occasion.&nbsp;
</li>
<li>
There is no closing time &mdash; Most online stores offer 24/7 availability, so you can browse early in the morning or late into the night. Online shopping will always fit your schedule.
</li>
<li>
It&rsquo;s fast &mdash; you can find high-quality items and checkout in minutes. When you factor in at-home and next-day delivery options, things get even quicker.
</li>
<li>
You&rsquo;re usually guaranteed quality &mdash; If you check reviews, select well-rated brands, and shop at well-known websites, you&rsquo;ll be more likely to choose a product you&rsquo;ll enjoy for years to come.
</li>
<li>
It&rsquo;s good for your budget &mdash; It&rsquo;s easy to compare prices, sort products by price (low to high) and filter your searches to find the best discounts or sales.
</li>
</ul>
 
<h2>Shop securely online with Community Fibre</h2>
Ready to get started shopping online? To do so safely, you&rsquo;ll need a secure broadband connection and best-in-class antivirus software.
That&rsquo;s why we offer a bundle of full-fibre broadband with <a href="https://communityfibre.co.uk/norton">Norton&trade; 360 Premium</a>. This offers bank-grade encryption to protect your data and <a href="https://communityfibre.co.uk/community-connect/blog/how-to-protect-your-digital-privacy">digital privacy</a> from cybercriminals on both home and public WiFi, as well as download/upload speeds of <a href="https://communityfibre.co.uk/3-gigafast">up to 3 Gbps</a> &mdash; more than fast enough for most online shops.
<a href="https://communityfibre.co.uk/#postcode-search-modal">Check availability</a> in London, Surrey, and Sussex.

Discover the essentials of how to shop online for beginners. Learn how to shop with confidence and find the best vendors & items with our top tips.

Online Shopping for Beginners: 6 Steps to Get Started

Shopping online is a convenient way to access to a wider variety of products. Explore our top 6 tips to get the most out of online shopping while staying safe.

Online shopping for beginners: six steps to get started

People use the internet for everything &mdash; from shopping to dating, it&rsquo;s an integral part of modern life &mdash; but nobody ever expects to be scammed online.
Online scams come in many forms, but their end goal is typically to trick you into giving away personal information or money.
In this guide, we&rsquo;ll run through the essentials of how to avoid being scammed online:
<ul>
<li>
<a href="#worry" rel="follow">Should I worry about online scams?</a>
</li>
<li>
<a href="#types" rel="follow">Types of online scams</a>
</li>
<li>
<a href="#tips" rel="follow">Tips and tricks to spot and avoid scams</a>
</li>
<li>
<a href="#whattodo" rel="follow">What to do if you&rsquo;re scammed online</a>
</li>
<li>
<a href="#faqs" rel="follow">FAQs</a>
</li>
</ul>
 
<h2 id="worry">Should I worry about online scams?</h2>
Scams impact everyone, and falling victim to this crime doesn&rsquo;t make you gullible or weak-willed. <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/money/2024/feb/19/amount-of-in-uk-more-than-doubled-to-23bn-in-2023-report-finds#:~:text=The%20amount%20of%20fraud%20committed,intelligence%20to%20rip%20off%20consumers.">Online scams cost &pound;2.3 billion</a> in 2023 alone, marking one of the most significant years for scammers in UK history.
Part of the problem is how widespread online scams have become recently, taking place on every corner of the internet, such as:
<ul>
<li>
Via emails
</li>
<li>
On social media (like Instagram, X, or Facebook)
</li>
<li>
Through fake websites
</li>
<li>
Via messaging apps (like WhatsApp or Facebook Messenger)
</li>
</ul>
The fallout of these scams can be life-changing, from identity theft to financial loss.
 
<h2 id="types">How to avoid being scammed online: understanding types of online scams</h2>
Scammers reach out in many ways, but these are the most common:
<h3>Phishing</h3>
Phishing typically occurs over email. Attackers claim to be real organisations, such as a bank, postal service, or subscription, and contact you asking for information they can use to resolve a problem. For example:
<ul>
<li>
&ldquo;Your subscription is about to run out&rdquo;
</li>
<li>
&ldquo;Your card is about to expire&rdquo;
</li>
<li>
&ldquo;Click this link to unlock your account&rdquo;
</li>
</ul>
For example, a <a href="https://communityfibre.co.uk/community-connect/blog/how-to-spot-an-online-scam-age-uk">scam email</a> may claim to be from your bank, asking for account details that the scammer can use to steal money.&nbsp;
<h3>Spear phishing</h3>
More targeted attacks are known as &lsquo;spear phishing&rsquo;, where cybercriminals personalise their emails with more specific information, such as your name. They may also research your social circle beforehand and create false email addresses, approaching you as if they are a close contact.
<h3>Tech support scams</h3>
Tech support scammers often claim your device is infected with a virus, or your data is unsecure, and offer &lsquo;support&rsquo; &mdash; for a fee.
Always be wary of unsolicited calls from support teams and pop-up antivirus messages, especially if you do not know the software provider claiming to contact you.
Tech support scams often include:
<ul>
<li>
Asking for personal information to unlock your account
</li>
<li>
Asking for access to your files
</li>
<li>
Asking you to run a scan on your computer
</li>
</ul>
If you&rsquo;re worried about a technical issue or virus, call your online security provider directly, using the number listed on their website.
<h3>Online shopping scams</h3>
Cybercriminals can create fake websites or product listings to trick you into buying products that don&rsquo;t exist. They may use stolen logos or photos, purchase official-looking domain names, or otherwise pose as trustworthy businesses.
There are a few things to look out for to protect yourself from online scams while shopping:
<ul>
<li>
Prices that are unbelievably low
</li>
<li>
Double-check the identity of the account holder when making a payment
</li>
<li>
Check the website has a privacy policy or terms and conditions
</li>
</ul>
<h3>Investment/cryptocurrency scams</h3>
Investment and cryptocurrency scams are the definition of &lsquo;too good to be true&rsquo;. They often involve the scammer approaching you with promises of high returns on your investment or cryptocurrencies that don&rsquo;t exist, or aren&rsquo;t worth the money. They may be phishing sites posing as legitimate investment platforms, fake initial coin offerings, or ponzi schemes.
<ul>
<li>
Research any company or cryptocurrency before making an investment
</li>
<li>
Never take investment guidance from the company who contacted you directly, and seek independent advice instead
</li>
</ul>
<h3>Online dating and romance scams</h3>
Good relationships are built on trust, which makes romance scams especially sinister. Cybercriminals build a relationship slowly over time, gaining your trust before asking for money.
These red flags signal an online dating scam:
<ul>
<li>
Asking for money for emergencies, debts, travel, or medical bills
</li>
<li>
Never meeting in person or over video chat
</li>
<li>
Using images that appear elsewhere online with a quick search
</li>
<li>
Moving quickly from their initial message to an &lsquo;I love you&rsquo; or &lsquo;I&rsquo;m in big trouble&hellip;&rsquo;
</li>
</ul>
 
<h2 id="tips">How to know if you've been scammed online: tips and tricks</h2>
To keep yourself safe online, keep these tips in mind:
<ol>
<li>
Verify email senders, random phone calls, and websites &mdash; look out for generic greetings, poor grammar and spelling mistakes, and mismatched URLs. Check any information against official channels before clicking links, especially before you send money.
</li>
<li>
Be sceptical of unsolicited communications &mdash; never download attachments from unknown sources or click strange links in an email. Likewise, don&rsquo;t share sensitive information like passwords or bank details unless you are sure the recipient is authentic.
</li>
<li>
Use strong passwords &mdash; Use a unique password for every platform with a combination of upper and lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols. Add an extra layer of <a href="https://communityfibre.co.uk/community-connect/blog/what-is-password-security">password security</a> with two-factor authentication.
</li>
<li>
Keep software/devices up to date &mdash; Update your operating systems, apps, and <a href="https://communityfibre.co.uk/norton">antivirus software</a> to ensure you&rsquo;re protected online. Good <a href="https://communityfibre.co.uk/community-connect/blog/what-is-device-security">device security</a> is your frontline support against scams.
</li>
<li>
Be careful when paying/transferring money online &mdash; Some scammers will ask you to send money, so avoid direct bank transfers. Instead, use services offering buyer protection, such as PayPal or credit cards.
</li>
<li>
Keep educating yourself about scams &mdash; Banks often publish updated advice on the latest scams and threats. You can read these from your own personal bank to stay up-to-date on the newest techniques scammers use.
</li>
<li>
Trust your gut&nbsp;&mdash; when it comes to online scams, the old cliches are usually right: if something is too good to be true, it usually is. Pay attention to your instincts, and take time to double-check the details if you have doubts.
</li>
</ol>
 
<h2 id="whattodo">What to do if you've been scammed online</h2>
Don&rsquo;t worry if you fall for a scam &mdash; it happens to around <a href="https://www.cifas.org.uk/newsroom/stateofscams">10% of people in Britain</a>, so you aren&rsquo;t alone. Follow these steps to help recover:
<ol>
<li>
Contact your bank to report the fraud and freeze your accounts
</li>
<li>
Freeze your card instantly via your banking app
</li>
<li>
Change your passwords on any accounts that may be compromised
</li>
<li>
Report the scam to the proper authorities
</li>
<li>
Report it to the platform, e.g. your email provider
</li>
</ol>
Criminals use increasingly sophisticated methods to lure people in and make offers that can be hard to refuse, so don&rsquo;t feel foolish if you fall for fraud.
 
<h2 id="faqs">FAQs about avoiding online scams</h2>
<hr>
<h3>How can I recognise a phishing email?&nbsp;</h3>
Several factors can mean an email is a phishing scam:
<ul>
<li>
A generic greeting like &lsquo;Hello&rsquo;
</li>
<li>
Grammar and spelling errors
</li>
<li>
A false sense of urgency or urging you to make a payment immediately
</li>
<li>
A suspicious sender address or links to untrustworthy sites
</li>
</ul>
<hr>
<h3>What should I do if I receive a suspicious message?</h3>
Do not respond to any suspicious emails or other communications. Never give your information to a source you have not verified, and avoid clicking any links or downloading any files. Instead, report the message to the platform you are using and move on.
<hr>
<h3>What are some common online scam red flags?</h3>
Red flags for scams can take many forms, such as:
<ul>
<li>
Unbelievably good deals
</li>
<li>
Spelling and grammar mistakes
</li>
<li>
Asking you to make payments on the same day
</li>
<li>
Pressuring you to respond right away
</li>
<li>
Asking for personal information or money
</li>
</ul>
<hr>
<h3>Will I get my money back after a scam?</h3>
It depends on the method of payment. The faster you report the scam, the more likely you can avoid or recuperate losses. In some cases, your card provider can ask the seller&rsquo;s bank to refund the money.
<hr>
 
<h2>Avoiding online scams explained</h2>
Following these tips will help you to stay safe from online scams and enjoy the internet without falling victim to fraud. The internet is a wonderful place to shop and handle your finances, but be aware of online scams and keep your security up-to-date.
We offer a range of <a href="https://communityfibre.co.uk/community-connect/digital-skills">free digital skills resources and courses</a> for you to explore safely. Likewise, you can boost your online security with our <a href="https://communityfibre.co.uk/norton">Norton&trade; 360 Premium</a> bundle, which can keep you and your household protected online while you enjoy our <a href="https://communityfibre.co.uk/#residential-packages" rel="follow">100% full fibre network.</a>
<h id="types"></h>

The internet is key to friendships, shopping & managing your finances. All this data means you’ll run into scams along the way- here’s how to prevent them.

How to Avoid & Prevent Online Scams: Our Top 7 Tips

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How to avoid online scams and scammers

The footprints you leave on the internet are precious, from personal photos stored on the cloud to financial information and online banking details that fund your life. If that data is lost or stolen, it can&rsquo;t be easily replaced.
Password security is the first step in protecting your personal data from being compromised, along with additional <a href="https://communityfibre.co.uk/community-connect/blog/what-is-device-security" rel="follow">device security measures</a>, such as two-factor authentication. You can also use antivirus software such as <a href="https://communityfibre.co.uk/norton">Norton&trade; 360 Premium</a> which encrypts your personal information with a VPN.
We&rsquo;ll cover how to stay safe online with proper password security in this guide, as well as tips and tricks you can try today.
 
<h2>What is password security? Why password security and protection are important</h2>
<a href="https://www.weforum.org/press/2020/01/forgotten-your-password-not-having-one-will-make-you-safer-says-world-economic-forum/#:~:text=Geneva%2C%20Switzerland%2C%2021%20January%202020,these%20attacks%20are%20password%2Drelated.">80% of all cybercrime</a> happens as a result of not following best practices for passwords. Without strong passwords, cybercriminals can easily access your personal information, hack into your accounts, and ultimately steal your identity.
The consequences can be life-changing, such as:
<ul>
<li>
Financial loss
</li>
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Personal data loss
</li>
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Data leaks and exposure
</li>
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Your personal accounts can become compromised or inaccessible
</li>
</ul>
If your professional or organisational devices aren&rsquo;t secure, criminals can also share sensitive information with competing companies or hold data for ransom.
 
<h2>Tips and best practices for password security</h2>
Luckily, creating and managing secure passwords has never been easier. Let&rsquo;s take a look at the five ways to enhance your password security:
<h3>1. Create a strong password</h3>
You&rsquo;ve probably heard it before: your password should include a mix of upper and lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols to be secure. That&rsquo;s true, but there&rsquo;s a little more to it. For instance:
<ul>
<li>
Your password should not be a word that&rsquo;s easy to guess &mdash; a random mix of letters, numbers and symbols is safest
</li>
<li>
<a href="https://support.microsoft.com/en-gb/windows/create-and-use-strong-passwords-c5cebb49-8c53-4f5e-2bc4-fe357ca048eb">12-14 characters</a> or more is generally considered the best length for passwords.&nbsp;
</li>
<li>
Don&rsquo;t include any personal information, like your hometown or childhood pet&rsquo;s name
</li>
<li>
Avoid simple passwords like &lsquo;password&rsquo; or &lsquo;password123&rsquo; &mdash; ideally your password should be impossible to guess
</li>
</ul>
<h3>2. Use unique passwords for every account</h3>
It&rsquo;s convenient to use the same password for your Facebook, email, Instagram, workplace, and everything else &mdash; but that comes with some danger, too.
If a cybercriminal guesses your password for one account, they can access everything else. That&rsquo;s why we recommend using a unique password for every account and device you use regularly.
Top tip: use a password manager like <a href="https://www.lastpass.com/">LastPass</a> to create and store your passwords.
<h3>3. Enable two-factor authentication where possible</h3>
Say someone guesses your password. They can access your account, right? Not if you use two-factor authentication (2FA)!&nbsp;
Essentially, 2FA means that once you&rsquo;ve input the right password, you&rsquo;ll need to verify your login using your email address, an authenticator app, or through a text message.
Top tip: Use two-factor authentication on any account you can, especially where you&rsquo;re storing sensitive information (think online banking and personal email accounts).
<h3>4. Update your passwords regularly</h3>
If you ever used school or university computers, you were probably forced to change your password every three to six months. Well, this rule should be another thing you take from your education.
Consistent password changes make it much harder for attackers to access your account, which is why this is common practice with many enterprise-level businesses and larger educational organisations.
Top tip: Set reminders to change your passwords every few months, and update your password management software when you do.
<h3>5. Be vigilant about security breaches</h3>
Stay up-to-date on any data breaches involving companies you use regularly, especially your bank or email platforms.
Your computer or phone may also include built-in features that alert you if your passwords are compromised.
Top tip: Services like <a href="https://www.upguard.com/">UpGuard</a> can help teams to manage security risks online, and notify you of any security breaches as well.
 
<h2>What not to do with your passwords</h2>
We&rsquo;ve covered what you should do to enhance your password security, but what are the don&rsquo;ts of keeping your accounts secure?&nbsp;
<ul>
<li>
Don&rsquo;t share passwords &mdash; Even sharing passwords with trusted people who claim to be from reputable organisations (like your bank) can lead to unauthorised access and theft.
</li>
<li>
Don&rsquo;t record passwords on a document on your computer &mdash; If cybercriminals access that particular file, they can easily &lsquo;break in&rsquo; to the rest of your online presence.
</li>
<li>
Don&rsquo;t include any personal information in your passwords &mdash; that includes your birthday, middle name, phone number, or anything that someone who personally knows you may be able to guess.
</li>
<li>
Don&rsquo;t use the same password for multiple accounts &mdash; As we mentioned, this can lead to multiple breached accounts if attackers gain access.
</li>
</ul>
Never ignore security warnings &mdash; Take action when your device or software needs to update, or if you receive any notifications that your account may be compromised. Check that these notifications come from a legitimate source before you click any links or buttons.
 
<h2>FAQs about password security</h2>
<hr>
<h3>What makes a strong password?</h3>
Strong passwords are unique for every account you use, and include a combination of upper and lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols. They should be randomly-generated and not a word you can easily guess or find in a dictionary.
<hr>
<h3>How often should you change your password?</h3>
According to <a href="https://uk.norton.com/blog/how-to/how-to-secure-your-passwords#:~:text=Password%20Updates%20%26%20Management,on%20more%20than%20one%20account.">Norton&trade;</a>, online banking passwords should change every month or so. For other accounts, like your computer or Facebook login, you can change your password once every three months.
<hr>
<h3>Are password managers safe?</h3>
Generally, yes. Password managers encourage you to follow best practices for security, keep your passwords encrypted, and most even suggest secure passwords whenever you create a new account.
<hr>
 
<h2>What should I do if my password is hacked?</h2>
If you fall victim to a data breach, follow these steps:
<ol>
<li>
Change your passwords on any accounts that might be affected
</li>
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Report the breach to the relevant organisation as soon as possible &mdash; e.g. let your bank know if your details have been compromised
</li>
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Monitor your activity on affected accounts
</li>
<li>
Set up two-factor authentication and implement a password manager like NordPass or LastPass to prevent this from happening again
</li>
</ol>
 
<h2>How safe is my password, really?&nbsp;</h2>
No single&nbsp; action will keep your passwords safe, but following the practices above will help safeguard your accounts from cybercrime.&nbsp;
<a href="https://communityfibre.co.uk/#residential-packages">Community Fibre broadband packages</a> come with top-tier customer service, and we&rsquo;re contactable from <a href="https://communityfibre.co.uk/#:~:text=Call%20us%20on%200800%20082,bank%20holidays%2C%209am%20%2D%207pm.">Monday to Friday 9am - 7pm</a> if you experience any online security concerns or technical issues.&nbsp;
You can also <a href="https://communityfibre.co.uk/norton">bundle your broadband with Norton&trade; 360 Premium</a> to shield your personal information with bank-grade encryption via our Secure VPN.&nbsp;
To learn more about how we keep our online communities safe and bridge the digital divide, <a href="https://communityfibre.co.uk/community-connect/blog/how-community-fibre-is-helping-to-bridge-the-digital-poverty-gap">discover our action to overcome digital poverty</a>.
<a href="https://communityfibre.co.uk/#postcode-search-modal">Check your postcode today</a> and see if Community Fibre is available in your area.

What is password security? We take you through what it means to have a strong password, and provide some helpful tips for protection online. Learn more.

What is Password Security? The Importance of Protection

Passwords are easy to forget, so we often fall into bad habits which leave us open to attacks. Learn how to improve your password security and protect your personal data.

Understanding password security and password protection

Device security, also known as cybersecurity, is the practice of protecting devices from threats like data breaches, malicious software, and unauthorised access.
Requirements vary from device to device, so whether you&rsquo;re using a mobile phone, laptop, PC, or tablet, you will need to consider different security options to protect your device &mdash; and your data. This protection comes in the form of strong authentication, restricted network access, and secure password management.
Where should you start? We&rsquo;ll take you through how to secure a device, and <a href="https://communityfibre.co.uk/community-connect/blog/tips-to-stay-safe-online" rel="follow">top tips to stay safe online</a>.
 
<h2>What are the consequences of poor device security?</h2>
In a worst-case scenario where your devices are left totally unprotected, you may suffer from financial losses, identity theft, and unauthorised access to personal data.
In corporate settings, poor device security can also manifest through the loss of sensitive company information, data breaches, and expensive recovery efforts.
<h3>Taking device security seriously</h3>
Cybersecurity threats are always on the horizon when you browse online, with ransomware attacks in the UK <a href="https://www.twenty-four.it/services/cyber-security-services/cyber-crime-prevention/cybercrime-statistics-uk/#:~:text=The%20average%20cost%20of%20a,of%20these%20types%20of%20attacks.">increasing by 70%</a> in 2020 alone. Device security is essential to protect both personal and business data from cyber threats and attacks.
 
<h2>Types of device security</h2>
There are several types of device security you&rsquo;ll need to cover to stay safe:
<h3>1. Antivirus/antimalware software</h3>
Antimalware tools can scan for &mdash; and remove &mdash; files that would otherwise harm your device or steal your personal data.
For example, if you install <a href="https://communityfibre.co.uk/norton">Norton&trade; 360 Premium antivirus software</a> on your device, it runs in the background and keeps you protected online. If you accidentally download a file that may be infected with a virus or malware, Norton will notify you before any harm can be done.
<h3>2. Firewalls</h3>
A firewall acts as a barrier between your computer and potential threats online. It will inspect any user&rsquo;s IP address and port numbers before they can access your network. This means unauthorised users can&rsquo;t access private networks unless you specifically allow them.
<h3>3. Encryption</h3>
<a href="https://cloud.google.com/learn/what-is-encryption">Encryption</a> protects your information using mathematical models. Effectively, it converts your data into unreadable code that criminals cannot easily access. It&rsquo;s especially useful when documents are in-transit or hosted online, such as on the cloud.
This way, if documents are stolen or lost, the encrypted data is still safe and cannot be used for malicious purposes.
<h3>4. Two-factor authentication</h3>
Two-factor authentication (also known as 2FA) gives you an extra layer of protection by requiring two forms of verification before granting access to your device, account, or data.
For example, you might use a password to log into a social media account, but with 2FA you might need to provide a verification code from text or email, or provide a fingerprint to access your account. Even if scammers get hold of your password, they still can&rsquo;t access your data without the second stage of authentication.
<h3>5. Device updates</h3>
While not everyone likes the time it takes to update their device, it&rsquo;s an important part of your device security. Updates can:
<ul>
<li>
Make sure you always have the latest security protections installed
</li>
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Add new security features to make you less vulnerable to malware, ransomware and viruses
</li>
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Update or &lsquo;patch&rsquo; any flaws from the previous version, leaving you less vulnerable overall
</li>
</ul>
 
<h2>Essential tips and best practices for device security</h2>
As we mentioned, device security looks different depending on the device you use. Here are some best practices to make sure your whole household is covered:
<h3>Mobile devices (Android/iOS)</h3>
What is the best way to secure a mobile device? Mobile phones and tablets can be protected in several ways, such as following best practices for <a href="https://communityfibre.co.uk/community-connect/blog/what-is-password-security" rel="follow">password security</a>. Other ways include:
<ul>
<li>
Installing security and antivirus apps
</li>
<li>
Install mobile device management software to track the location of any device and lock or wipe sensitive data remotely
</li>
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Always use a VPN when logging into unsecured public WiFi networks
</li>
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Update your device and apps when needed to keep your security up-to-date
</li>
</ul>
<h3>Windows and macOS laptops</h3>
Device security for laptops involves creating &lsquo;safety habits&rsquo; that keep things running smoothly.
<ul>
<li>
Encrypt your harddrive/disk with a software like <a href="https://learn.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/security/operating-system-security/data-protection/bitlocker/">BitLocker</a> for Windows or <a href="https://support.apple.com/en-ie/guide/mac-help/flvlt001/mac">FileVault</a> for macOS
</li>
<li>
Backup your data using a cloud service - this means you have access to precious files even in the event of a cyberattack
</li>
<li>
Enable built-in firewalls and other security settings, such as Windows Defender
</li>
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Keep your laptop, operating system, and all relevant apps updated
</li>
<li>
Install anti-virus software like&nbsp;<a href="https://communityfibre.co.uk/norton">Norton&trade; 360 Premium</a> to enable real-time protection
</li>
</ul>
<h3>Internet of Things (IoT) devices</h3>
Devices that use AI or machine learning can be classified as &lsquo;IoT&rsquo; hardware. These modern devices still need to be protected, as they connect to the internet in order to perform their core functions.
In fact, many IoT devices are not built with strong security features, so following these steps is especially important:
<ul>
<li>
Update the software regularly for protection against the latest threats
</li>
<li>
Avoid using the same password across all your devices. Instead, use different, strong passwords for each&nbsp;
</li>
<li>
Consider using a separate network for IoT devices to limit an attacker's access if they do manage to infiltrate the system
</li>
</ul>
 
<h2>Understanding the importance of good device security</h2>
Following the steps above will help keep your personal and business information safe from cyber attacks, and data breaches. Basically, practising good device security will make you less open to cybercrimes like fraud and extortion.
 
<h2>FAQs about device security</h2>
<hr>
<h3>&lt;H3&gt; What is the best way to secure my mobile device?</h3>
There is no single way to protect your mobile device from those with malicious intent. Instead, you should follow these best practices:
<ul>
<li>
Use strong lock screen security
</li>
<li>
Avoid using public WiFi
</li>
<li>
Use an antivirus app
</li>
<li>
Use a password manager
</li>
<li>
Ensure your <a href="https://communityfibre.co.uk/community-connect/blog/how-to-set-up-a-secure-home-network" rel="follow">home network</a> is set up securely
</li>
</ul>
<hr>
<h3>How can I ensure my computer is protected from viruses?</h3>
There are five essential steps to protect our computer from viruses:
<ol>
<li>
Install antivirus and antispyware software, such as <a href="https://communityfibre.co.uk/norton">Norton&trade; 360 Premium</a>
</li>
<li>
Enable firewall protection
</li>
<li>
Use strong and diverse passwords
</li>
<li>
Update your software regularly
</li>
<li>
Don&rsquo;t click links from unverified sources
</li>
</ol>
<hr>
<h3>What should I do if my device is lost or stolen?</h3>
Hopefully you followed the steps we covered in this article, so you can:
<ul>
<li>
Lock your device remotely
</li>
<li>
Change your passwords
</li>
<li>
Track your phone&rsquo;s location
</li>
</ul>
Otherwise, you should monitor your account activity and file a police report as soon as possible.
<hr>
<h3>Is it safe to use public WiFi?</h3>
Public WiFi is not always safe. If you connect to an unsecure network, attackers can steal your passwords and personal information, as well as infect your device with malware. Never connect to public WiFi without using a VPN and antivirus software.
<hr>
 
<h2>Take action to protect your devices</h2>
The internet is a life-changing invention, for better and worse, depending on how you use it. The more precautions you can take, the better to protect your data.&nbsp;
Our <a href="https://communityfibre.co.uk/#residential-packages">full fibre packages</a> provide a fast and secure connection throughout London, perfect for maintaining high levels of device security.&nbsp;
We don&rsquo;t stop at providing broadband, either &mdash; Community Fibre is also working to <a href="https://communityfibre.co.uk/community-connect/blog/how-community-fibre-is-helping-to-bridge-the-digital-poverty-gap">bridge the digital poverty gap</a>. We educate and assist you with device security concerns and offer technical support so you can use the internet safely and effectively.&nbsp;
<a href="https://communityfibre.co.uk/#postcode-search-modal">Check if Community Fibre is available</a> in your area today.

What is device security? We cover five of the best methods to stay safe online no matter what device you use. Learn how to make your devices more secure.

What is Device Security? 5 Methods to Stay Safe

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