HOW TO KEEP YOUR INFORMATION SAFE WHILE SHOPPING ONLINE

Eureka, Ca- This Cyber Monday the National Retail Federation says 129 million shoppers will take advantage of online deals. However, you may not leave the house to shop online but your credit card information does. Retail analyst suggests being careful when inputting your personal information. Shopping online can be risky so retail analysts also advise that you keep your anti-virus programs up to date and check your bank statements thoroughly. But some shoppers say they will take the risk if it means avoiding the crowds. Shopper Benny Forsythe told us, "its the crowds. I just can not stand fighting the Christmas crowds."It’s not just the crowds, but also the convenience. Shoppers can purchase gifts for everyone without even stepping foot inside a shopping mall. Forsythe added,"just a lot more convenient to do it out of my house. And everything arrives there, boxed up. And they even wrap it for you."It’s the decorations and the holiday spirit that brings people to the stores. For some shoppers, online shopping lacks that personal touch. Shopper Sarah Brady told us, "Target gave us a little goodie bag on Friday. It had little vitamins and things to keep you going. So that was nice. A little extra perk you wouldn't get online."But something you can get online is Spam email. Be aware of emails claiming to be shipping notifications. If the email looks suspicious, never click on the link.