Black Friday is Coming—Stay Smart, Shop Safe!

Black Friday and Cyber Monday are right around the corner, and with them comes the promise of incredible deals and discounts. However, this time of year is also a prime opportunity for scammers who are eager to take advantage of eager shoppers. Before you jump into your holiday shopping, take a moment to prepare yourself with these tips to avoid falling victim to scams.

Common Scams to Watch Out For

1. Fake Websites and Phishing Scams Scammers often create fake websites that mimic trusted retailers, offering deals that seem too good to be true. You might also receive phishing emails with links that lead to these fake sites. Always check the URL carefully—look for misspellings or extra characters. Stick to shopping on official websites or trusted marketplaces, and avoid clicking on email links.

2. Too-Good-To-Be-True Social Media Ads Social media is flooded with ads this time of year, and many are legitimate. However, some ads link to fraudulent websites or products. Research unknown sellers by reading reviews or checking their contact information before making a purchase. If the deal seems unbelievably good, proceed with caution.

3. Gift Card Scams Scammers may offer gift cards at discounted rates or target you with phishing emails pretending to be from major retailers. Always purchase gift cards directly from the retailer or a reputable store, and avoid entering gift card numbers online unless you're redeeming them on the official site.

4. Credit Card Skimming During the holiday shopping rush, scammers may use skimming devices at physical stores or ATMs to steal card information. Pay attention to card readers and ATMs—if anything looks off, don’t use it. Use contactless payment options when possible for added security.

5. Fake Delivery Notifications With so many packages in transit, scammers send fake delivery emails or texts claiming there's an issue with your order. These messages often include a link to a malicious website. Always verify shipment details directly with the retailer or delivery company.

Stay Secure While Shopping

• Use Secure Payment Methods: Opt for credit cards instead of debit cards for better fraud protection. Even better, use virtual credit card numbers or secure payment platforms like PayPal.
• Shop on Secure Networks: Avoid shopping on public Wi-Fi networks, which can be vulnerable to hackers. If you must use public Wi-Fi, consider using a VPN to protect your data.
• Keep Your Software Updated: Make sure your phone, computer, and apps are updated with the latest security patches to reduce vulnerabilities.
• Enable Alerts: Set up purchase alerts on your credit card so you’re immediately notified of any suspicious activity.

Protecting Your Personal Information

The holiday shopping season is not just about scoring deals; it’s also about protecting your identity. Scammers are often after more than just your money; they may also try to steal your personal information. Be mindful of where you’re entering details and ensure the websites you visit are legitimate. Look for “https” in the URL and avoid providing more information than necessary.

Enjoy a Safe and Happy Shopping Season

The holidays should be about joy and celebration, not stress over scams. With these tips in mind, you can shop confidently, knowing you’re protecting yourself and your finances.

Want more tips on staying secure during the holiday season? Contact us today to learn how we can help protect you, your business, and your family year round!

Happy shopping!