Black Friday and Cyber Monday are nearly upon us, bringing lots of online deals and discounts. As shoppers gear up, cybercriminals are also preparing to exploit them.
Arm yourself with these top online shopping security tips to safely navigate this year’s sales:
- Reputable Websites & Apps Only:
- Always start with trusted online retailers.
- Check for “https” and the padlock symbol in website URLs.
- Download retailer apps from official platforms like App Store or Google Play.
- Update Software & Antivirus for 2023:
- Ensure the latest 2023 updates for your OS, browsers, and antivirus programs.
- Set automatic updates for real-time protection.
- Craft Strong Passwords for Shopping Accounts:
- Combine uppercase, lowercase, numbers, and symbols.
- Avoid common phrases or personal details.
- Use password managers for top security.
- Activate Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) on Shopping Sites:
- Use 2FA for an extra security layer during Black Friday & Cyber Monday.
- This involves getting a unique code via phone or email.
- Detect Phishing Scams in Black Friday Emails:
- Beware of unsolicited Black Friday or Cyber Monday emails.
- Never click on unknown links or download suspicious attachments.
- Verify deals by visiting the retailer’s official site.
- Choose Secure Payment Methods for Cyber Monday Deals:
- Use credit cards or trusted payment gateways like PayPal.
- Steer clear of direct bank transfers on unfamiliar sites.
- Regularly review transaction history for anomalies.
- Investigate Unrealistic Cyber Monday Discounts:
- Question incredibly low prices on sought-after items.
- Always read product and seller reviews before purchasing.
- Employ Secure Wi-Fi Networks:
- Avoid public Wi-Fi when accessing Cyber Monday 2023 deals.
- Ensure your home network has robust password protection.
- Limit Personal Info Sharing:
- Share only essential information at checkout.
- Beware of sites seeking too much personal data.
- Monitor Accounts & Respond to Fraud Quickly:
- Regularly check accounts during the shopping season.
- Report any unauthorized charges immediately.
With Black Friday and Cyber Monday 2023 approaching, it’s imperative that you prioritize your online security. By implementing these tips, not only will you safeguard your personal and financial details, but you’ll also ensure a smooth, worry-free shopping experience.