Holiday Cybersecurity Tips: Shop Online Safely This Season
Staying Secure While You Shop Online
Practice Safe Online Shopping This Holiday Season
The holiday season is upon us, and for many, that means hunting down deals online.
But as exciting as online shopping can be, it’s also a peak time for cyber threats.
From phishing scams to fake websites, cybercriminals are getting more creative in their attempts to steal information.
To help you shop with confidence, we’ve put together a few essential cybersecurity tips for a safe online shopping experience.
1. Spot Fake Online Stores
With so many deals popping up, it can be tricky to distinguish legitimate websites from fraudulent ones. Scammers create fake websites that mimic popular retailers, hoping to trick shoppers into entering their personal and payment information. Here’s what to look for:
- Check the URL – A secure website starts with “https,” not “http.” Look for the padlock icon next to the URL, which indicates a secure connection.
- Look for Red Flags – Be cautious of websites with poor grammar, low-resolution images, or an unprofessional design. These are common indicators of a scam site.
- Verify Contact Information – Legitimate online stores have clear contact details, including a customer service number and a physical address. If this information is missing or suspicious, think twice before purchasing.
- Search for Reviews – Before making a purchase, look up reviews of the website. If other users have had negative experiences, it’s a strong sign to steer clear.
By taking these steps, you can avoid falling victim to fake online stores and shop with confidence.
2. Recognize Phishing Emails
Phishing emails are a go-to tactic for cybercriminals during the holiday season. These emails often pose as “special offers” or urgent shipping updates to lure you into clicking malicious links or entering your details on fake sites. Here’s how to spot them:
- Check the Sender’s Address – Phishing emails often come from addresses that look similar to well-known brands but have minor misspellings or extra characters. Double-check the sender’s address to confirm its legitimacy.
- Beware of Too-Good-To-Be-True Deals – If an email offers a deal that seems unrealistic, it probably is. Avoid clicking on these links, as they often lead to malicious sites.
- Look for Urgent Language – Many phishing emails use urgent language, like “Act Now!” or “Limited Time Offer!” to create a sense of urgency. Legitimate retailers rarely use such aggressive tactics, especially via email.
- Inspect the Links – Hover over any links in the email (without clicking) to see where they lead. If the URL looks suspicious or doesn’t match the company’s official website, it’s likely a phishing attempt.
Staying cautious with emails, especially during the holiday season, can help protect you from these common scams.
3. Set Up Alerts for Added Security
For an extra layer of security, consider setting up purchase alerts with your bank. Many banks and credit card companies offer real-time alerts for transactions, which can be invaluable in detecting suspicious activity quickly.
- Enable Text or Email Alerts – Many banking apps allow you to turn on notifications for all purchases or for transactions over a certain amount. This way, if an unauthorized purchase occurs, you’ll be notified instantly.
- Monitor Bank Statements Regularly – Even with alerts, it’s a good idea to review your bank statements regularly during the holiday season. Look for any unusual transactions and report them immediately if you spot something suspicious.
- Use Credit Cards Over Debit Cards – Whenever possible, use a credit card for online shopping. Credit cards typically offer stronger fraud protection than debit cards, which can help keep your money safe in the event of a security breach.
Taking these precautions ensures you can shop with greater peace of mind and focus on finding the perfect gifts instead of dealing with potential cyber threats.
Stay Secure While You Shop
Online shopping is a convenient way to find gifts, but a few precautions can go a long way in protecting your data. By spotting fake websites, recognizing phishing emails, and enabling purchase alerts, you can enjoy the holiday season without the worry of cyber threats.
Need help setting up safe shopping practices? We’re here to support you this holiday season—just reach out if you have any questions.
Happy (and secure) shopping!