Before you make forays into holiday shopping on the Internet, make sure you have the core protections, firewall, anti-virus and anti-spyware installed and updated with the most current information from your security software provider.    Also take a few minutes to check the settings for software that connects to the Internet (browsers, email clients, etc). Make sure the security levels are set to at least medium so you are informed of risks but can surf freely as well.

Keep software, particularly your Web browser, up to date. Install software updates when they become available so that attackers cannot take advantage of known problems or vulnerabilities.    Many operating systems offer automatic updates. If this option is available, you should enable it.

Check sellers out. Conduct independent research before you buy from a seller you have never done business with. Some attackers may try to trick you by creating malicious websites that appear to be legitimate, so you should verify the legitimacy before supplying any information.    Locate and note phone numbers and physical addresses of vendors in case there is a problem with your transaction or your bill.

Take advantage of security features. Passwords and other security features add layers of protection if used appropriately.

Protect your personal information. When making a purchase online, be alert to the kinds of information being collected to complete the transaction and make sure you think it is necessary for the vendor to request that information.    Before providing personal or financial information, check the web site's privacy policy. Make sure you understand how your information will be stored and used.

Buy safely. When you're ready to buy something and before you enter your personal and financial information, look for signs that the site is secure, such as a closed padlock on the browser's status bar.    When you're asked to provide payment information, the beginning of the website's URL address should change from http to shttp or https, indicating that the purchase is encrypted or secured. Don't use unsecured wireless networks.

Use safe payment options. Credit cards are generally the safest option because they allow buyers to seek a credit from the issuer if the product isn't delivered or isn't what was ordered.    Also, unlike debit cards, credit cards may have a limit on the monetary amount you will be responsible for paying if your information is stolen and used by someone else. Never send cash through the mail or use a money-wiring service because you'll have no recourse if something goes wrong.

Keep a paper trail. Print and save records of your online transactions, including the product description, price, online receipt, terms of the sale, and copies of any email exchange with the seller.    Read your credit card statements as soon as you get them to make sure there aren't any unauthorized charges. If there is a discrepancy, report it immediately.

Turn your computer off when you're finished shopping. Many people leave their computers running and connected to the Internet 24/7. This is a dream scenario for scammers who want to install malicious software on your machine and then control it remotely to commit cyber crimes, such as spamming and phishing.    To be extra safe, switch off your computer when you are not using it.

e wary of emails requesting information. Attackers may attempt to gather information by sending emails requesting that you confirm purchase or account information.    Legitimate businesses will not solicit this type of information through email.