Don't shop until you drop on Black Friday. Instead, plan to take advantage of Cyber Monday deals in the comfort of your home or office. Go through your holiday shopping list and decide what items you can purchase online. Then, make sure your computer is ready for one of the busiest online shopping days of the year. Read on for six tips that will bring peace of mind to your holiday shopping this year.
1. Update Your Browser. Frequently, browser programs are updated to address problems. If your browser is an older version, you may not see websites the way they are meant to be displayed, and there could also be security issues (e.g., someone could hack into your computer.) To check what version you currently have on your computer, open the browser program, go to the toolbar up top, click on "Help," and then click on "About [the name of the program.]"
2. Update Anti-Virus Software. Is you antivirus subscription current? Protect yourself from hackers, thieves and cyber-terrorists and download the latest update. Remember, antivirus software is used to prevent, detect, and remove computer viruses, worms, and trojan horses. Don't take chances with an out of date program. Also, limit the number of unknown sites you visit.
3. Download the Latest OS Updates. Check to make sure that your computer is running the latest operating system update. Both Microsoft and Apple update their systems regularly to ensure the safety and reliability of your computer. Don't procrastinate. These updates offer the latest protection against malicious online activities.
4. Scan Computer for Spyware. Spyware tracks your movements on the Web and often times interferes with your computer's performance. If you have time, run a full system scan of the hard drive before you start shopping to make sure that you do not have any unwanted intrusions.
5. Bookmark your Favorite Sites. Visit the e-tailers before Cyber Monday and bookmark the site(s). Every second is crucial. You do not want to waste time typing in a Web address or looking for a site.
6. Prepare for Computer Freezes. If your computer freezes or doesn't respond, do not panic. You will need to reboot the computer. Simply click on the "Ctrl-Alt-Delete" keys The task manager will open and you will need to click on the "Start Task Manager" tab. A window will open and you will see the site that is not responding. Simply click the "End Task" tab and the web page will close. For Apple computers, hold the "power" button down until the computer turns off or select the "Opt- Cmd-Esc" keys.
Internet safety and finding great deals on Cyber Monday can coexist. Just remember, leave nothing to chance and exercise common sense.
This year do everything you can to make the most out of your holiday shopping. Start by visiting http://www.dealsonblackfriday.com, a site dedicated to providing resources and information on the best Black Friday deals and specials.
