Nearly 90% of Americans say they will do some of their holiday shopping online, which can make the holiday season especially lucrative for fraudsters.
To avoid getting scammed this season, we recommend following these online shopping tips:
Don’t let the “it’s available, so I have to buy it now” mindset make you a victim. The best way to avoid this is to shop local (when you can), and when you do shop online, only go to retailers you know and trust.
Don’t click on links in emails or texts to go to a store’s website. This may take you to a fake site that only steals your information. Instead, type the business’ URL in the address bar. If there is a discount attached to a specific link, there is always a way to enter the discount manually at check-out.
Above all, remember that the holidays are not about gifts or how much money you spent. They are about family, peace, and caring for others. Do not start your New Year with the stress of trying to prove you were ripped off; start off by knowing you did everything you could to make this a happy, safe, and stress-free season for everyone in your life.
One thing to never forget: If something seems too good to be true, it probably is too good to be true. Rather than take a chance, take a break—and use that time to call or connect with someone you love.
