Recognizing Secure Websites Before You Sign In

Before entering personal information or payment details on a website, take a moment to verify that the site appears trustworthy. Look for the HTTPS protocol and the padlock icon in your browser’s address bar, as these indicate that your connection is encrypted. While HTTPS does not guarantee that a website is legitimate, it is an important security feature.

Pay attention to the website’s domain name and watch for spelling mistakes or unusual characters that may indicate an imitation site. Cybercriminals sometimes create fake websites that closely resemble legitimate services in an attempt to collect login credentials or financial information.

If you receive a link through an email or message, avoid clicking it immediately. Instead, type the website’s address directly into your browser or use a trusted bookmark. This simple habit can help protect you from phishing attempts and fraudulent websites.

Developing the habit of checking a website’s security before signing in or making a purchase reduces your risk of becoming a victim of online scams and helps protect your personal information.