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Beware of Shopping Scams Over the Holidays
The holiday season is a time for gift-giving and festive cheer, but it’s also a prime time for cyber scams. With the convenience of online shopping comes risks like scams, data breaches, and phishing attacks. Protect yourself and your loved ones by following these tips for safe online shopping this Christmas.
1. Stick to Trusted Retailers
Shop with well-known brands and retailers. If you’re exploring a new website, check reviews and verify its legitimacy before making a purchase. Look for “https” in the URL and a padlock symbol, which indicate a secure connection.
2. Avoid Public Wi-Fi
Shopping while out and about might be tempting, but public Wi-Fi networks are often unsecured and can expose your personal information. Use a secure, private network or a VPN when entering sensitive details like your credit card information.
3. Be Wary of Deals That Look Too Good to Be True
Unbelievable discounts or offers can often be scams designed to steal your payment details. Always verify the authenticity of deals, especially those shared via unsolicited emails or social media ads.
4. Use Strong, Unique Passwords
If you’re creating new accounts for holiday shopping, use strong, unique passwords for each site. A password manager can help you generate and store secure passwords with ease.
5. Monitor Your Accounts
Regularly check your bank and credit card statements for unauthorised transactions. Set up alerts for your accounts to catch any suspicious activity quickly.
6. Pay Securely
Opt for credit cards or secure payment platforms like PayPal instead of debit cards, as they offer greater protection against fraud. Avoid direct bank transfers unless you’re absolutely sure of the seller’s authenticity.
7. Watch for Phishing Scams
Scammers often send fake emails or messages that mimic legitimate retailers, urging you to click on malicious links. Avoid clicking links in unsolicited messages; instead, visit the retailer’s official website directly.
8. Keep Your Devices Protected
Ensure your devices are updated with the latest security patches and antivirus software. This helps block malware and other threats while you shop.
9. Use Two-Factor Authentication
Enable two-factor authentication (2FA) on your online shopping accounts for an extra layer of protection. This ensures that even if your password is compromised, your account remains secure.
10. Keep Receipts and Order Confirmations
Save copies of your purchase receipts and order confirmations. This will help you track your purchases and resolve any disputes with sellers.
By taking these precautions, you can enjoy the convenience of online shopping without falling victim to cybercrime. A little extra vigilance can go a long way in keeping your holiday season merry and secure.
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