The Holiday's are right around the corner, you are probably getting a ton of emails for sales, by one get one free, etc.  But do you know where those emails are coming from? They may say they are from JC Penny's, Sears, Macy's but you have to be careful.  If you do plan on buying gifts online, here are a few simple rules to help protect your identity as well as your bank account.

•  Never click a link in an unsolicited email. Although the email may look legitimate, and the link takes you to a site that "looks" like the company who sent the email, it may already be too late.  Just by clicking the link could have installed malware without your knowing.  Instead of clicking the link in the email, open up your browser of choice and type in the address of the company you want to order from. 

• If its too good to be true, then it probably is.  Ever see those advertisements on web pages that claim they are selling IPads for $50?  This is most likely an "Ebay" type auction site, where you are charged for EACH BID you place.  More likely than not a computer is bidding against you just to make more bids come in.  Remember that's how they charge you, FOR EACH BID placed. 

• Shipping Charges can add up.  I recently heard a story about how some online stores are touting their low prices.  For example, in the story I heard, a company was selling a shovel for $19.95.  Good price you say?  After filling in all the info and getting ready to commit to the sale, it was determined that after shipping that shovel was going cost about $56.  Not such a bargain after all.  Some companies offer shipping for multiple items, it is always good to ask if that is something they offer.

Remember the bad guys don't care that it's Christmas, they just want your information.  As stated above, "If its too good to be true, it probably is". If you are not sure about an email, open a browser and type in the web address of where you are trying to go or give the company a call and verify the information first.  Be sure to check the shipping fees.  Never give out personal information to anyone over the phone or in an email unless you initiate the contact.  That way you know who you are speaking with.

If you have any questions on email or related system topics, call the CCS Retail Systems Support Department at 800-672-4806 or email_us.  We are here to help.

-Bryan