Special Series | Staying Safe During Black Friday and Cyber Monday Shopping

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Levy Olvera • November 20, 2023

Special Series | Staying Safe During Black Friday and Cyber Monday Shopping

Navigating Cyber Risks and Securing Your Savings During Shopping Spree Season

As the holiday season approaches, many of us eagerly anticipate the deals and discounts that come with Black Friday and Cyber Monday. These shopping events offer fantastic opportunities to save big on a wide array of products, both in stores and online. However, it's crucial to be aware of potential cyber risks that could compromise your online shopping experience.

Understanding Black Friday and Cyber Monday:

Black Friday, which follows Thanksgiving Day, is known for in-store deals, huge discounts, and bustling crowds. Cyber Monday, on the other hand, is the online counterpart, offering significant discounts and promotions from various e-commerce websites.

Cyber Risks to Watch Out For:

Amid the excitement of scoring deals, it's essential to recognize the risks associated with online shopping:

Phishing Attacks: Scammers may attempt to trick you through emails or fake websites, aiming to steal your personal information or financial details.

Unsecured Websites: Some websites might not have adequate security measures, making your sensitive information vulnerable to hackers or data breaches.

Identity Theft: Sharing personal information on unreliable websites can lead to identity theft and potential financial loss.

Protecting Yourself Online:

Here are essential steps to safeguard your online shopping experience:

Shop from Reputable Retailers: Stick to well-known and trusted retailers to minimise the risk of encountering fraudulent websites or deals that seem too good to be true.

Ensure Secure Connections: Before entering any personal or financial information, check that the website has a secure connection (look for 'https' and a padlock icon in the address bar).

Use Strong Passwords: Create unique and strong passwords for your online accounts to prevent unauthorised access.

Beware of Public Wi-Fi: Avoid making purchases or entering sensitive information when connected to public Wi-Fi networks, as they may not be secure.

Final Thoughts:

While Black Friday and Cyber Monday present exciting opportunities to save on your holiday shopping, it's crucial to prioritise your online safety. By staying vigilant, shopping from trusted sources, and being cautious with your personal information, you can make the most of these sales events without falling prey to cyber threats. Happy shopping and stay safe!