Cyber Monday is one of the biggest online shopping days of the year. With so many deals available, it can be tempting to load up your cart and check out quickly. But before clicking the “buy” button, it is important to pause and make sure you are shopping safely.
Criminals know that millions of people will be online looking for bargains. This makes Cyber Monday a prime time for fraud, scams, and malicious threats. Whether you are browsing on your phone, tablet, or computer, staying alert and practicing smart online security habits is more important than ever.
Below are some practical tips to help you stay protected and enjoy a safer shopping experience.
Before entering personal or financial information online, make sure the website is secure. Look for “https” in the web address and a small padlock icon next to the URL. These are signs that the connection is encrypted, making it more difficult for hackers to access your information.
Also, avoid shopping while connected to public Wi-Fi. Public networks can be easy targets for cybercriminals. If you must shop while away from home, consider using a virtual private network, or VPN, to increase your internet security.
Looking for more advice? Review 9 Simple Tips to Better Protect Your Passwords for smart ways to secure your online accounts.
Some websites look like legitimate stores but are designed to trick you into entering your credit card number or sharing your passwords. These fake platforms often appear through advertisements, pop-up windows, or fraudulent emails promising major discounts.
Always type the store’s URL directly into your browser, and avoid clicking unfamiliar links in emails or text messages. If something seems too good to be true, it probably is.
Cyber Monday is also a prime time for phishing scams, which use fake messages to trick you into providing personal information. When in doubt, delete the message or report it as spam.
Strong, unique passwords are your first line of defense. Do not reuse the same password across multiple websites. If hackers gain access to one account, they will likely try the same password on others.
Use a password manager to generate and store complex passwords. Also, enable multifactor authentication, or MFA, whenever it is available. This additional step, such as sending a code to your phone, can prevent cybercriminals from accessing your accounts even if they know your password.
For more advice, read How to Protect Your Social Security Number, which includes helpful guidance for safeguarding sensitive personal information during all your online activities.
Your computer is not the only device at risk. Tablets, smartphones, and even smartwatches can be vulnerable to malware and other harmful activity. Keep your devices updated with the latest security patches and antivirus tools.
Many scams also occur through apps. Only download apps from official stores, such as the Apple App Store or Google Play, and review user ratings before installing them.
You should also keep Bluetooth turned off while shopping unless it is necessary. Some cybercriminals use Bluetooth to access nearby devices.
A smartphone displaying Cyber Monday security tips for safer online shopping.
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During the holiday season, children may spend more time online shopping for gifts, playing games, or browsing social media. Unfortunately, this also increases their risk of being targeted by scammers or online predators.
Teach children how to stay safe online and avoid sharing personal information with strangers. Watch for signs of risky behavior and speak openly about internet safety. Online security is not only about protecting your money; it is also about protecting your family.
For more information about smartphone safety for children and adults, review Getting the Most from Smartphone Ownership.
Many online stores request more information than they actually need. If a website asks for your Social Security number, full date of birth, or other sensitive information, consider it a warning sign. Only provide the information necessary to complete the purchase.
Limit the amount of personal information you share, especially on platforms you do not recognize or trust. This helps reduce your exposure to identity theft, data breaches, and targeted threats such as phishing or malware attacks.
Shop only on websites you trust. Stay with established retailers or sellers that have positive reviews and verified contact information. If you are using a new website, research it first and look for customer complaints or scam warnings.
Use credit cards instead of debit cards when shopping online. Credit cards generally provide stronger protection against fraud and unauthorized charges. Avoid direct bank transfers, wire transfer services, or sending money to unfamiliar contacts through payment apps.
To manage your spending, consider using the tools in Use Technology to Manage Your Money Better, which may help you stay in control while shopping online.
The internet can be a powerful tool for convenience, saving money, and even learning. However, without the right knowledge and resources, online shopping also carries risks. That is why it is important to stay informed and connected with current guidance from trusted organizations.
Here are some useful resources and tools that provide practical advice and warnings about shopping scams, data theft, and cybersecurity threats:
As part of a safer digital community, these platforms help consumers shop more intelligently and securely. Use them regularly and share what you learn with others.
Online safety begins with understanding the risks and sharing that knowledge with others. Parents play an important role in guiding children toward safe shopping habits and maintaining open communication about online threats.
Joining an online program or reading a trusted article can help families stay informed about risks such as cyberbullying or data scams. Look for engaging content that explains both the benefits and the consequences of sharing information online.
We invite you to join our effort to promote technology awareness and smarter online shopping choices.
It is easy to get caught up in the excitement of Cyber Monday, especially when there is pressure to act quickly before deals disappear. However, rushing can lead to poor decisions and mistakes that put your finances or identity at risk.
If you feel overwhelmed or stressed, take a break. You can also read Holiday Blues: How to Cope with Mental Health During the Holidays to help you stay grounded and emotionally balanced this season.
A little awareness goes a long way. By following the tips above, you can protect your information, shop more intelligently, and avoid the risks associated with online holiday shopping.
Most credit card companies provide built-in fraud protection and purchase monitoring. Review the security features offered by your credit card companies and use the card with the strongest protections for online purchases.
If you have too many cards to choose from during this review, it is important to make sure you are not overextending yourself with credit cards. Speak with a debt counselor for advice on paying down those balances, and consider a credit report review to make sure your credit report is accurate and presents your financial history positively.
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