Enterprise Nation

With the festive shopping season in full swing, and widespread predictions of a spike in fraudulent activity, worldwide technology and solutions company, Unisys has released a list of top tips to help shoppers avoid identity theft. The Good Web Guide checks them out.

1) Online Shopping Threats

According to Financial Fraud Action UK, phone, internet and mail order fraud cost Britons £134 million in the first half of 2009. So what to do to avoid becoming a victim?

i) Shop on safe sites, look for the padlock icon at the bottom of the screen

ii) Where possible, use a credit card rather than a debit card as banks can often offer consumers a higher level of protection when a credit card is used

iii) Take the time to read seller feedback on sites such as eBay or Amazon.

2) Seasonal Spyware

The number of malicious e-cards circulating is expected to rise this year so never open an email or attachment from an unknown sender and don't download 'exe' files as these often contain adware, malware, unwanted downloads and spyware. If you can't resist opening a file, drag it into your 'junk' email folder first as this allows you to check all the links to see if they are legitimate. If a site looks suspicious, don't click on it. If you do get caught out, be sure to run a virus scan to clean up your machine afterwards.

3) 'Not So Social' Networking

According to GetSafeOnline, one in four people using social networking sites have posted confidential or personal information such as phone number, address or email on their online profile. Be wary of games or quizzes where you input your details.

4) Beware ATM Skimmers

According to the European ATM Security Team, ATM card trapping scams are up a staggering 640%. If you think someone is too close behind you or looking over your shoulder, find a different ATM machine. If the ATM machine appears to be behaving oddly or does not work the first time, go to a different machine - don't try it again!

5) Fake Online Payment Sites

Escrow services such as PayPal allow businesses and consumers to send and receive payments securely online. But escrow scams are on the increase. Legitimate Escrow sites are secure. If you are unsure, check that they have SSL certification, indicated by the locked padlock at the bottom of the screen. Also check that the web address starts as https:// rather than just http:// as this is often an indicator of rogue traders.

To read Unisys' full top ten tips to avoid festive fraud, click here.