![Avoiding Black Friday Scams: How to Shop Online Safely This Holiday Season [2024]](https://dstech.net/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Avoiding-Black-Friday-Scams.png)
As Thanksgiving approaches, so does the chaos of Black Friday and Cyber Monday.
For many, these shopping events are a chance to snag great deals—but for cybercriminals, it’s an opportunity to exploit unsuspecting shoppers.
From phishing scams to fake websites, the risks are real.
Here’s how to shop online safely this Black Friday and ensure your holiday season is scam-free.
1. Stick to Trusted Retailers
When shopping for deals, it’s tempting to click on every flashy offer that appears in your inbox or social media feed. However, these can often lead to fake websites designed to steal your information.
How to stay safe:
- Only shop on trusted, well-known websites. Look for URLs that start with “https” (not “http”), as the “s” indicates a secure connection.
- If a deal seems too good to be true, verify it by going directly to the retailer’s official site OR call them instead of clicking on ads or links.
2. Beware of Phishing Emails and Texts
During Black Friday, your inbox will likely overflow with promotional emails.
Unfortunately, cybercriminals take advantage of this by sending phishing emails disguised as legit offers.
These emails might include fake order confirmations or links to fraudulent deals.
How to stay safe:
- Double-check the sender’s email address—scammers often use addresses that look similar to legitimate companies.
- Don’t click on suspicious links or download attachments. Instead, visit the retailer’s site directly (or CALL them!)
- Be cautious of texts claiming you’ve won a giveaway or free product; these are often traps.
3. Use Secure Payment Methods
Using the wrong payment method online can leave you vulnerable to fraud.
Credit cards, for example, offer more protection against unauthorized charges than debit cards.
How to stay safe:
- Use a credit card or a secure payment service like PayPal instead of entering your bank details.
- Avoid entering your payment information on sites that don’t offer secure checkout (look for the padlock symbol in the address bar)…and don’t save your payment information online.
- Consider enabling virtual credit card numbers through your bank or payment app for an added layer of protection.
4. Avoid Public Wi-Fi for Shopping
Public Wi-Fi networks are convenient but notoriously insecure.
Hackers can intercept your data while you browse, potentially stealing sensitive information like login credentials or credit card numbers.
How to stay safe:
- Shop from a secure, private Wi-Fi network whenever possible.
- If you must shop while on public Wi-Fi, use a VPN (Virtual Private Network) to encrypt your connection and protect your data.
5. Be Cautious on Social Media
Social media platforms are full of ads, especially during Black Friday.
Unfortunately, not all of these ads are legitimate. Some may lead to fake websites or malicious downloads.
How to stay safe:
- Verify the retailer’s social media account before clicking on any deals. Look for the blue verified checkmark on platforms like Facebook and Instagram.
- Don’t share personal or payment information through social media messages or pop-up ads.
6. Keep Your Software and Devices Updated
Outdated software can have vulnerabilities that hackers exploit.
Shopping on a device without the latest security updates can put you at risk.
How to stay safe:
- Update your phone, computer, and apps to the latest version before shopping.
- Enable two-factor authentication (2FA) on your accounts for an extra layer of security.
7. Monitor Your Bank Statements
Even with all the precautions in place, it’s important to stay vigilant.
Regularly check your bank or credit card statements for any suspicious activity during and after Black Friday.
How to stay safe:
- Set up transaction alerts with your bank so you’re notified of purchases in real-time.
- Report unauthorized transactions immediately to your financial institution.
8. Trust Your Instincts
If something feels off about a website, email, or offer, it probably is.
Trust your gut and err on the side of caution.
There’s no deal worth compromising your financial security.
Conclusion: Shop Smart and Stay Secure
Black Friday is a time for amazing deals, but it’s also a prime time for cybercriminals.
By sticking to trusted retailers, using secure payment methods, and staying vigilant against scams, you can enjoy the holiday shopping season without falling victim to fraud.
At DS Tech, we’re passionate about keeping you and your business safe year-round.
If you’d like more tips on cybersecurity or need help protecting your online systems, we’re here to help.
Happy shopping—and stay secure!
