Cyber Monday is one of the biggest online shopping days of the year. With so many deals, it’s tempting to load up your cart and checkout quickly. But before you hit that “buy” button, it’s important to pause and make sure you’re shopping safely.
Criminals know that millions of people will be online looking for bargains. That makes Cyber Monday a prime time for fraud, scams, and malicious threats. Whether you’re browsing on your phone, tablet, or computer, staying alert and using smart online safety habits is more important than ever.
Below are some practical tips to help you stay protected and enjoy a secure shopping experience.
Before entering your personal or financial details online, make sure the website is secure. Look for “https” in the web address and a small lock icon next to the URL. These are signs that the connection is encrypted, making it harder for hackers to gain access to your information.
Also, avoid shopping while connected to public Wi-Fi. Public networks can be easy targets for cybercriminals. If you must shop away from home, consider using a virtual private network (VPN) for added internet safety.
Want more tips? Check out 9 Simple Tips to Protect Your Passwords Better for smart ways to lock down your online accounts.
Some websites look like real stores but are designed to trick you into entering your credit card number or sharing your passwords. These fake platforms often appear through ads, pop-ups, or scam emails promising big discounts.
Always type store URLs directly into your browser, and avoid clicking on unfamiliar links in emails or texts. If something looks too good to be true, it probably is.
Cyber Monday is also prime time for phishing scams, which use fake messages to trick you into giving up personal information. When in doubt, delete the message or report it as junk.
Strong, unique passwords are your first line of defense. Don’t reuse the same password for multiple sites. If hackers gain access to one account, they’ll likely try it on others.
Use a password manager to generate and store complex passwords. Also, turn on multi-factor authentication (MFA) whenever it’s offered. This extra step—like a code sent to your phone—can stop cybercriminals from breaking into your accounts, even if they know your password.
For more advice, read Protecting Your Social Security Number, which includes helpful tips on protecting sensitive personal information across all your online activities.
Your computer isn’t the only device at risk. Tablets, smartphones, and even smartwatches can be vulnerable to malware and other harmful behavior. Keep your devices updated with the latest security patches and antivirus tools.
Many scams also happen through apps. Only download apps from official stores like the Apple App Store or Google Play, and check reviews before installing.
You should also keep your Bluetooth turned off while shopping unless it’s needed. Some cybercriminals use Bluetooth to access nearby devices.
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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 online predators or scams.
Teach children how to stay safe online and avoid sharing personal details with strangers. Look for signs of risky behavior and talk openly about internet safety. Online safety isn’t just about protecting your money; it’s also about protecting your family.
To learn more about smartphone safety for kids and adults, check out Making the Most of Smartphone Ownership.
Many online stores ask for more information than they need. If a site asks for your Social Security number, full date of birth, or other sensitive data, that’s a red flag. Only provide what’s required to complete your purchase.
Limit how much personal information you share, especially on platforms you don’t know or trust. This helps reduce your exposure to identity theft, data breaches, and targeted threats like phishing or malware attacks.
Shop only from websites you trust. Stick with well-known retailers or sellers that have strong reviews and verified contact information. If you’re using a new site, look it up first and check for customer complaints or scam warnings.
Use credit cards instead of debit cards when shopping online. Credit cards offer better protection against fraud and unauthorized charges. Avoid using direct bank transfers, wire services, or sending money via apps to unknown contacts.
To manage your spending, consider using tools from Use Technology to Manage Your Money Better, which can help you stay in control while shopping online.
The internet can be a powerful tool for convenience, savings, and even learning. But without the right awareness and resources, online shopping also comes with risks. That’s why it’s important to stay informed and connected to up-to-date guidance from trusted organizations.
Here are a few helpful tools and resources that offer practical advice and warnings about shopping scams, data theft, and cybersecurity threats:
As part of a safer digital community, these platforms empower consumers to shop smarter and more securely. Use them regularly and share what you’ve learned with others.
Online safety starts with understanding the risks and sharing that knowledge with others. Parents play a key role in guiding children through safe shopping habits and open communication about online threats.
Joining an online program or reading a trusted article can help families stay informed about risks like cyberbullying or data scams. Look for engaging content that explains both the benefits and consequences of sharing information online.
We invite you to join our effort to promote technology awareness and smarter online shopping choices.
It’s easy to get caught up in the excitement of Cyber Monday, especially when there’s pressure to act fast before deals disappear. But rushing can lead to poor decisions and mistakes that put your finances or identity at risk.
If you’re feeling overwhelmed or stressed, take a break. You can also read Holiday Blues: Dealing with Mental Health During the Holidays to help you stay grounded and emotionally balanced this season.
A little awareness goes a long way. By using the tips above, you can protect your information, shop smarter, and avoid the risks that come with shopping online during the holidays.
Most credit card companies have built-in fraud protection and purchase monitoring to protect you. Look at the features offered by your credit card companies, and use the card with the most robust security features for any online purchases.
If you have too many cards to choose from when doing this analysis, it’s important to ensure you’re not overdoing it with credit cards. Talk to a debt coach for advice on getting those cards paid off, and consider a credit report review to ensure your credit report is accurate and reflects positively on you.
