With Cyber Monday just around the corner, the New York State Office of Information Technology Services is reminding everyone to be alert.
Cyber Monday is the official kick-off to the online holiday shopping season and one of biggest online shopping days of the year.
However, it is also a high time for scammers and identity thieves.
State officials have some tips for you this online holiday shopping season
Make sure you shop with websites and merchants that you know and trust while also making sure the site is secure. Look for "HTTPS" while shopping -- the "s" stands for secure.
Think twice before clicking on email links or pop up advertisements. The link may contain a virus and the ads could be scams.
Make sure your computer, mobile devices and home WiFi is secure. That includes keeping your operating system and antivirus software up to date. Another important step is to not use public computers or public WiFi when checking your personal bank or online shopping.
Criminals can intercept traffic on public networks to steal credit card numbers and other confidential information.
And lastly, make sure your taking precautions when using passwords.
Officials say you should consider using different passwords for different accounts as well as changing your passwords after the holiday season ends.
For more online safety resources, including real-time advisories, daily tips and other user-friendly awareness materials, visit the Information Technology Service website.