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Black Friday is a day many people look forward to for incredible online deals. However, it is also a time when scammers and cybercriminals target unsuspecting shoppers. With so much activity on the internet, your personal and financial data may be at risk if precautions aren’t taken.
In this guide, we’ll explore practical strategies to keep your data safe during Black Friday and beyond.
Stick to Secure and Well-Known Websites
When shopping online, always prioritize secure websites. Check the web address to ensure it starts with “https:” instead of “http:”. The “s” indicates that the website uses encryption, which helps protect the information you share, like your name, address, and payment details.
Choosing familiar websites is also a safer choice. Large, established retailers are more likely to have robust security systems in place compared to smaller, less-known ones. If you come across an unfamiliar website offering great deals, do some research. Search for reviews or any warning signs about scams before proceeding.
Shopping on trusted websites reduces the chances of your data falling into the wrong hands. While no website is immune to hacking, sticking with reputable platforms provides an added layer of confidence.
Use Credit Cards, Not Debit Cards
Credit cards are a safer payment option for online shopping than debit cards. This is because debit cards are directly connected to your bank account. If someone gains access to your debit card information, they could potentially drain your account.
With a credit card, fraudulent transactions are easier to dispute. Many credit card companies offer protections against unauthorized charges, and resolving issues with credit cards is often faster than with debit cards.
Consider using one credit card specifically for online shopping. This approach makes it easier to track purchases and limits the risk if the card’s details are compromised.
Real Also: Black Friday: Free Tools to Find The Best Deals and Discounts
Avoid Shopping on Public Wi-Fi
Public Wi-Fi networks, such as those in cafes or shopping malls, may seem convenient, but they pose significant security risks. These networks are often unencrypted, making it easy for hackers to intercept any data you send or receive while connected.
If you must shop online while away from home, use your mobile data instead of public Wi-Fi. Another alternative is using a Virtual Private Network (VPN). A VPN encrypts your internet connection, making it more secure against cyberattacks.
Keep in mind that entering sensitive information, like passwords or credit card details, on public networks leaves you vulnerable. Shopping from a secure, private connection is always the best choice.
Beware of Unrealistic Deals
It’s tempting to chase after the best discounts, but not every deal is genuine. Scammers often lure shoppers with offers that seem too good to be true. For example, a website might claim to sell high-end electronics at a fraction of the usual price.
Before making a purchase, verify the deal by visiting the retailer’s official website. Scammers often create fake websites that mimic legitimate ones, and clicking on ads or links from unknown sources can lead to phishing attempts or malware infections.
If a deal feels suspicious, it’s worth taking an extra moment to double-check its authenticity. Exercising caution can save you from falling into a trap.
Limit the Personal Information You Share
Online retailers often request personal details, but not all of this information is essential for completing a transaction. For instance, some sites may ask for answers to security questions like your mother’s maiden name or the name of your first pet.
Whenever possible, provide only the necessary information. For security questions, you don’t need to provide truthful answers. Using fake or random answers reduces the chances of hackers piecing together your identity.
The less personal data you share online, the harder it will be for cybercriminals to exploit you. Focus on providing only what’s required to finalize your purchase.
Be Cautious with Promotional Emails
Around Black Friday, promotional emails flood inboxes. While many are legitimate, others may be phishing scams designed to steal your data. These scams often mimic real companies, making them difficult to identify at a glance.
Avoid clicking on links in emails, even if they appear to come from a trusted retailer. Instead, go directly to the retailer’s website by typing its address into your browser. This simple step reduces the risk of landing on a phishing site.
Look for common red flags in suspicious emails, such as spelling errors, generic greetings, or requests for sensitive information. Staying alert can help you spot scams before they cause harm.
Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)
Two-factor authentication (2FA) adds an extra layer of security to your online accounts. In addition to your password, 2FA requires a second form of verification, like a code sent to your phone or generated by an authentication app.
Even if a hacker gains access to your password, they won’t be able to log into your account without the second verification step. Enable 2FA on your accounts whenever it’s available, especially for accounts tied to financial or shopping activities.
Read Also: Best Authenticator Apps for Android and iOS
Keep Your Devices and Software Updated
Outdated software is a common entry point for hackers. Cybercriminals often exploit known vulnerabilities in older operating systems, browsers, and apps. Keeping your devices updated ensures these vulnerabilities are patched.
Enable automatic updates for your devices and applications whenever possible. Regularly update your browser and install reliable antivirus software to protect against malware. These updates are critical to maintaining a secure online environment.
Watch Out for Fake Shopping Apps
Some cybercriminals create fake apps that mimic popular online retailers. These apps often look convincing but are designed to steal your login credentials or install malware on your device.
To avoid these scams, only download apps from trusted sources like the Google Play Store or Apple App Store. Take a moment to verify the app’s reviews and check the developer’s name to ensure it’s legitimate.
Avoid downloading apps from links sent via email or text, as these are common tactics used to distribute fake apps.
Monitor Your Financial Accounts
Even with all the precautions in place, it’s still possible for breaches to occur. Regularly monitoring your bank and credit card accounts helps you catch any unauthorized transactions early.
During busy shopping times like Black Friday, check your account activity weekly, or even daily. Many banks offer real-time transaction alerts, which can notify you immediately of any suspicious activity.
If you notice anything unusual, report it to your bank or credit card company immediately. Acting quickly minimizes potential damage.
Consider Virtual Credit Cards
Virtual credit cards are a secure option for online shopping. These temporary card numbers are linked to your main account but can only be used for specific purchases. If the virtual card number is stolen, it cannot be reused.
Many credit card providers offer virtual cards as an added layer of protection. Check with your bank or card issuer to see if this feature is available. Using a virtual card can provide peace of mind when shopping online.
Back Up Your Data Regularly
Cyberattacks, such as ransomware, can lock you out of your device or compromise your files. Regular backups ensure that your important data is safe and recoverable.
Store backups on an external hard drive or in secure cloud storage. This precaution ensures you won’t lose vital information, even if your device is affected by malware or other security threats.
Conclusion
Black Friday is a great time to find deals, but it also brings risks. Taking simple precautions, such as shopping on secure websites, avoiding public Wi-Fi, using credit cards, and enabling two-factor authentication, can help you protect your personal and financial data.
These tips aren’t just useful during the holiday shopping season—they’re valuable year-round. By being cautious and mindful, you can enjoy the convenience of online shopping without putting your information at risk. Stay safe and make informed choices as you shop.