Black Friday is approaching again, and while it promises incredible deals, it’s also a time to exercise caution. Cybercriminals see this as an opportunity to prey on unsuspecting shoppers who may let their guard down in pursuit of huge discounts.
- Stick to trusted retailers – it can be tempting to explore unfamiliar websites offering huge discounts, but this is where the risk of scams is highest.
- Stick with the businesses you know and trust, especially those you have successfully shopped with before.
- If you are curious about a new retailer, search for reviews and verify their legitimacy before purchasing.
- Avoid clicking links in emails – phishing scams are rampant during shopping seasons, with fraudulent emails disguised as offers from popular brands.
- Go directly to the retailer’s official website through your browser.
- Scammers often use addresses that look similar to legitimate companies but include subtle differences.
- Beware of unnecessary software and apps – installing unfamiliar software or apps to access discounts is a significant red flag.
- Avoid downloading new apps unless they are from familiar and trusted retailers and official app stores.
- Avoid apps that request excessive access to your device or personal data.
- Watch out for hidden memberships – special deals may sometimes come with strings attached, such as hidden memberships that require regular full-price purchases.
- Before completing a transaction, ensure you’re not unwittingly subscribing to a recurring service.
- Avoid deals that feel overly complicated.
- Genuine bargains don’t require convoluted commitments.
- Avoid paying for access to discounts.
- Use secure payment methods – protect your financial information by choosing safer payment options when shopping online.
- Use credit cards or payment services such as PayPal or Apple Pay, which often provide buyer protection in case of fraud.
- Avoid direct bank transfers.
- Avoid payment methods that don’t offer recourse if something goes wrong.
- Look for HTTPS and Security Indicators – before entering any personal or payment information online, ensure the website is secure.
- A secure website address will have “https://” at the beginning of the URL, along with a padlock icon in the address bar.
- Be cautious and avoid unsecured websites.
- Monitor your bank statements – fraudulent transactions can go unnoticed if you don’t keep an eye on your bank accounts.
- Check your bank statements regularly to spot any unauthorised transactions.
- Report suspicious activity immediately to your bank or card provider.
- Avoid public Wi-Fi for online shopping – shopping on public Wi-Fi networks can leave you vulnerable to hackers.
- Make purchases using private, password-protected Wi-Fi connections.
- Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) add an extra layer of security, making your online activity harder to intercept.
- Think before you buy – impulse purchases often lead to regret, especially for items you wouldn’t normally consider buying.
- Be realistic about the product’s value.
- Pause before purchasing. If something seems worthless or unnecessary at the recommended retail price, it’s likely not worth buying with a 90% discount.
Although this article is about Black Friday, adopting these practices all year round is wise to ensure safe and secure online shopping. Generally speaking, it is good practice to avoid buying in a way that doesn’t align with societal norms; being asked to do so should be considered a huge red flag.