Stay Safe This Black Friday and Cyber Monday: Essential Online Shopping Security Tips
- mikeschuman1
- 6 days ago
- 3 min read
Black Friday and Cyber Monday bring some of the best deals of the year, but they also attract cybercriminals looking to exploit shoppers. As you prepare to snag those discounts, protecting your personal information and finances should be a top priority. This guide offers practical tips to help you maintain online safety while enjoying the convenience of holiday shopping.
Use Strong, Unique Passwords for Shopping Accounts
Many people reuse passwords across multiple sites, which puts you at risk if one store suffers a data breach. Create strong passwords that combine letters, numbers, and symbols. Avoid using easily guessable information like birthdays or common words.
Consider using a password manager to generate and store unique passwords for each online retailer. This tool helps you avoid the hassle of remembering multiple passwords and reduces the chance of falling victim to credential stuffing attacks.
Shop Only on Trusted Websites
Before entering any payment details, verify that the website is legitimate. Look for URLs that start with https:// and display a padlock icon in the address bar. These indicate the site uses encryption to protect your data.
Avoid clicking on deals from suspicious emails or pop-up ads. Instead, go directly to the retailer’s official website or app. Scammers often create fake sites that mimic popular stores to steal your information.
Use Credit Cards or Secure Payment Services
Credit cards usually offer better fraud protection than debit cards. If unauthorized charges occur, you can dispute them more easily without risking your bank balance.
Alternatively, use secure payment services like PayPal, Apple Pay, or Google Pay. These services add an extra layer of security by keeping your card details private and sometimes offering buyer protection.
Keep Your Devices and Software Updated
Cybercriminals exploit vulnerabilities in outdated software to gain access to your information. Make sure your computer, smartphone, and apps have the latest security updates installed.
Enable automatic updates when possible. Also, use reputable antivirus software to detect and block malware that could compromise your online safety during the busy shopping season.
Beware of Phishing Scams and Fake Offers
Phishing attacks increase during Black Friday and Cyber Monday. You might receive emails or texts that look like they come from a trusted retailer but actually aim to steal your login credentials or payment information.
Check the sender’s email address carefully and avoid clicking on links or downloading attachments from unknown sources. If an offer seems too good to be true, it probably is. Verify deals directly on the retailer’s official site.
Monitor Your Accounts Regularly
Keep an eye on your bank and credit card statements during and after the shopping period. Look for any unauthorized transactions and report them immediately.
Set up alerts with your bank or credit card provider to receive notifications of purchases. This way, you can act quickly if something suspicious happens.
Save Receipts and Order Confirmations
Keep digital or printed copies of your receipts and order confirmations. These documents can help resolve disputes if items don’t arrive or if you are charged incorrectly.
Organize your purchase records in a dedicated folder or app for easy access. This habit also helps you track your spending and budget better during the holiday sales.
Use Two-Factor Authentication When Available
Two-factor authentication (2FA) adds an extra step to the login process, usually requiring a code sent to your phone or email. This makes it harder for hackers to access your accounts even if they have your password.
Enable 2FA on your shopping accounts and email to increase your protection. Many retailers and payment services offer this feature for free.
Plan Your Shopping in Advance
Make a list of the items you want and set a budget before the sales begin. This reduces the temptation to rush and click on unsafe links or deals.
By planning ahead, you can also research the best prices on trusted sites and avoid last-minute scams that prey on impulse buyers.
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