Don't get cheated or scammed while shopping online

The online holiday shopping season is well underway. Residents are urged to shop carefully and be certain that the websites are real and secure.

Fraud investigators with the San Diego County District Attorney's Office and San Diego County Sheriff's Department recommend shoppers use one credit card for all online purchases to avoid exposing other cards.

Do not click on links from unsolicited emails. Go to the website instead. Make sure the website is legitimate and secure. Check for the lock icon in the address bar, and make sure the address begins with https.

Make sure the browser, anti-virus and malware protection software is updated on the computer used.

Avoid using a public computer. Shop at home on a secured network. Avoid using open Wi-Fi networks for financial transactions. Password protect home Wi-Fi networks and use a firewall.

Create a unique password for every online account. Use at least eight letters and a combination of numbers, letters and symbols. Update passwords frequently.

Do not trust sellers who ask for payment with a wire transfer or with prepaid debit cards. Lock smartphones and tablets with a password or code feature to prevent thieves from stealing and using them to make purchases.

Only download apps from a trusted app store or online platform such as Amazon, iTunes and Google Play.

Use a security app to protect smartphones or tablet devices against malicious apps and malware.

Lastly, monitor bank statements for unauthorized transactions.