Stay Safe While Shopping Online This Holiday Season

The holidays bring joy, celebration—and unfortunately, a prime opportunity for scammers. As you hunt for the perfect gifts, make sure your money and personal information stay protected. Here’s how to shop smart and secure this season:

1. Stick to Trusted Retailers Scammers often create fake websites or listings that mimic popular brands. These traps can lead to lost money or stolen personal data.

Before you buy:

• Check that the URL begins with HTTPS
• Look for a lock icon or trust seal labeled “secure” or “verified”
• Use official apps from verified app stores—they’re harder to tamper with

If something feels off, close the tab and shop elsewhere.

2. Watch for “Too Good to Be True” Deals Massive discounts and urgent messages can be red flags. Fraudsters use these tactics to lure shoppers into entering payment info on fake sites. Always:
3.  

• Pause and verify the seller and site
• Research deals before clicking “buy”

Beware of Brushing Scams: If you receive random packages you didn’t order, a seller may be using your address to post fake reviews. Don’t scan any QR codes inside—report the incident, change your passwords, and monitor your accounts.

3. Don’t Fall for Gift Card Scams

Scammers love gift cards because they’re hard to trace. They might:

• Pretend to be a friend, coworker, or government official
• Urgently ask you to buy gift cards and share the codes
• Send fake checks and ask for the “difference” in gift cards

Always verify the identity of anyone making urgent requests—especially if money is involved.

4. Choose Secure Payment Methods

Use credit cards with fraud protection or reputable mobile payment apps. Even then:

• Double-check the site’s security
• Review the platform’s buyer protection policies

5. Avoid Fake Stamp Deals

Discounted holiday stamps online? Be cautious. Counterfeit stamps can lead to undelivered mail and lost items. Buy directly from the USPS or your local post office.

6. Stay Sharp on Social Media Scammers are active on social platforms, using tactics like:

• Phishing: Fake login pages or messages to steal your info
• Fake Giveaways: Promises of prizes in exchange for personal details
• Impersonation: Posing as celebrities or influencers to promote scams

Always verify accounts and offers. Report anything suspicious to the platform.

7. Strengthen Your Cyber Defenses

Good cybersecurity habits go a long way:

• Use strong, unique passwords
• Enable two-factor authentication
• Research sellers and read reviews before buying or selling

Tip: Track your shipments to avoid missed delivery scams and ensure you get what you paid for.

8. Avoid Public Wi-Fi for Purchases

Public networks are often insecure. Use your mobile data for transactions and watch out for “shoulder surfers” who might peek at your screen.

9. Keep Software Up to Date

Update your:

• Security software
• Web browser
• Operating system

These updates patch vulnerabilities and help keep hackers at bay.

Make Security Part of the Celebration

A little caution goes a long way. By staying alert and following these tips, you can focus on what really matters—spreading joy, not dealing with fraud. Happy (and safe) shopping!