Staying Safe This Holiday Season: Your Guide to Secure Shopping Online and In-Person

While the holiday season is a time of joy and generosity, it's also a time when scammers and fraudsters are more active than ever. Whether you're shopping online or hitting the mall, it's essential to prioritize your safety and security to protect yourself from credit card fraud while you browse the best deals.

Here are some valuable tips and advice on how to stay safe while doing some holiday shopping.

Online Shopping Safety

Online shopping has become increasingly popular, especially during the holiday season. To ensure a secure online shopping experience, consider the following tips:

1. Shop from reputable websites

Stick to well-known, reputable online retailers. Look for trust signals such as HTTPS in the website's URL, a padlock icon in the address bar, and positive customer reviews.

2. Use strong, unique passwords

Create strong passwords for your online shopping accounts, and don't reuse them across multiple sites. Consider using a password manager to keep track of your login credentials. And remember, don’t write your passwords down on paper.

3. Be cautious with email offers

If it seems too good to be true, it probably is. Scammers often use phishing emails to steal your personal information or financial data. Verify the legitimacy of the sender and the website by independently searching for the retailer's official website and never download attachments or click links if you’re unsure if they’re legitimate.

4. Enable two-factor authentication (2FA)

Whenever possible, enable 2FA for your online shopping accounts. This extra layer of security can prevent unauthorized access even if your login credentials are compromised.

5. Use a credit card

When making online purchases, use a credit card rather than a debit card. Credit cards typically offer better fraud protection, and it's easier to dispute unauthorized charges.

Credit Card Safety

Credit card fraud can be a significant concern during the holiday season. Check out these best practices to protect your credit card information:

1. Monitor your statements

Regularly review your credit card statements for any unauthorized charges. If you spot any discrepancies, report them to your credit card issuer immediately.

2. Set up transaction alerts

Many credit card companies offer the option to receive text or email alerts for specific types of transactions. Set up alerts for large purchases or unusual activity to detect potential fraud early.

3. Avoid public Wi-Fi for transactions

Public Wi-Fi networks can be insecure, making it easier for hackers to intercept your credit card information. Whenever possible, use a secure, private network for online shopping or financial transactions.

4. Keep your card information secure

Never share your credit card information via email, text, or phone call, especially if you didn't initiate the contact. Legitimate companies will not ask for your credit card details in this manner.

Finding Good Deals

Holiday shopping often involves searching for the best deals but it’s easy to be overwhelmed and overspend. To ensure you're getting the most bang for your buck:

1. Compare prices

Use price comparison websites and apps to easily look at the cost of an item from different retailers. Don't assume that a discount is the best deal without checking other sources.

2. Be aware of fake discounts

Some online sellers may inflate the original price to make a discount appear more significant than it actually is. Cross-check prices across multiple websites to verify the authenticity of discounts.

3. Check return policies

Before making a purchase, review the retailer's return policy, especially for online shopping. Some deals may come with strict return conditions that could affect your satisfaction with the purchase.

4. Avoid impulse buying

Take your time to consider your purchases. Impulse buying can lead to overspending and buyer's remorse. Create a shopping list and stick to it.

This holiday season, prioritize your safety and financial well-being while shopping online and in-person. By following these tips to avoid credit card fraud, navigate online shopping safely and find the best deals, you can enjoy the festive season with peace of mind. Remember that staying vigilant and informed is the key to a secure and successful holiday shopping experience.

Learn more about online security