Black Friday and Christmas Seaon are exciting times for scoring deals, but they’re also prime hunting grounds for scammers. With online shopping expected to hit record highs, it’s crucial to protect yourself from scams and identity theft while snagging those discounts. According to Capital One, consumer spending on Cyber Monday alone has skyrocketed from $3.1 billion in 2015 to an impressive $12.4 billion in 2023, with 2024 expected to follow this upward trend.
Unfortunately, the rise of online shopping has also made it a prime target for scammers. The Federal Trade Commission reported that over $300 million has already been lost to online shopping fraud in 2024. During the holiday season, scammers ramp up their efforts, taking advantage of shoppers eager to score deals—especially those that seem too good to pass up.
Here’s How to avoid 4 Common Scams:
Be cautious with QR codes: “Quishing” scams use fake QR codes to redirect you to malicious sites or install malware. Only scan codes from trusted sources.
Shop on secure networks: Use your home Wi-Fi, not public connections, to make purchases. Public networks can expose your credit card details to hackers.
Verify charities: If you’re feeling generous, confirm donation requests through platforms like Charity Navigator. Scammers often mimic charities to prey on your goodwill.
Stick to trusted websites: Fake online stores mimic real ones to steal your information. Use reviews on platforms like TrustPilot to check site legitimacy.
As cybersecurity experts, we warn that scammers can create very convincing fake sites. If a deal seems too good to be true, it likely is. The holidays should be a time for joy, not stress. By staying alert and following these tips, you can enjoy the season while keeping your finances and personal data safe.
Comentários