As the calendar flips from Black Friday to Cyber Monday, the thrill of holiday deals is high—but so is the risk to your wallet and personal information. Whether you’re clicking “checkout” from your couch or racing through the store for doorbusters, savvy shoppers know that fraudsters are just as active this season. From phony websites to email scams to reckless password habits, staying alert and protecting your identity is as important as snagging that perfect deal. For example, government agencies report that scammers exploit the holiday rush by creating fake shopping sites, urging you to pay with wire transfers or other risky methods.
- Shop Only on Secure Sites:
Look for ‘https’ in the URL and avoid entering payment info on unfamiliar or unverified sites. - Use Strong, Unique Passwords:
Don’t reuse passwords across sites. Use a password manager or enable two-factor authentication. - Beware of Phishing Emails:
Fake shipping updates and “too-good-to-be-true” deals are common traps. If you didn’t sign up for it — don’t click it. - Monitor Bank Statements:
Check your transactions often for any suspicious activity. Many banks now offer real-time alerts. - Consider Identity Theft Coverage:
Some home or renters insurance policies offer optional identity theft protection. Ask your agent if you’re covered.
Your holiday shopping should bring joy—and the security that your purchases, finances and identity are safe. By sticking to secure websites (look for “https”), using strong, unique passwords and keeping an eye on your accounts, you’ll dramatically reduce the chances of letting scammers turn your big savings into a big headache. And if you’ve also checked your credit cards’ protections and considered identity-theft coverage, you’ve not only earned a great deal—you’ve protected your future. Start the season smart, stay alert, and enjoy the deals without giving unwanted attention to fraudsters.
