Summary: Cybercrimes increase during the busy holiday online shopping season, especially on Cyber Monday. So, we’re sharing some important information about the common types of online holiday scams and tips for safely shopping online during these hectic times. Staying Safe While Shopping Online This Holiday Season
The Monday following Black Friday, known as Cyber Monday, consistently ranks as one of the busiest online shopping days in the United States. While the appeal of skipping crowded malls is undeniable, this surge in online activity also attracts scammers eager to exploit unsuspecting shoppers.
In a
recent poll conducted by Norton, 48% of consumers revealed they had been targeted by a scam while shopping online during the holiday season.
Unfortunately, many individuals do fall prey to various online scams during this festive time, leaving them feeling anything but joyful. Here’s a look at common online scams during the holidays and tips to protect yourself while shopping.
Common Types of Holiday Online Scams
Understanding the types of scams prevalent during the holiday season is your first defense. Here are some common scams to be aware of:
Charity Scams
The spirit of giving tends to flourish during the holidays, making it a prime time for scammers to target those who want to donate. To do this, scammers create fake charity websites, making it hard for well-meaning individuals to identify them until after they’ve lost money or personal data. Always verify a charity’s legitimacy through trusted sources before making donations.
Social Media Scams
As per the
Norton 2024 survey, 40% of respondents point to social media as a hot spot for scammers. Fraudulent ads promote enticing offers on gift cards or cash prizes in exchange for filling out surveys. In other cases, scam ads may mimic popular items, coaxing consumers into providing sensitive information under the guise of making a purchase. Always approach offers on social media with caution and verify their authenticity.
Email Scams
Phishing emails surge during the holidays, often masquerading as messages from reputable companies like Amazon or UPS. Be wary of unsolicited emails promising deep discounts or prizes. If prompted to “click here” to claim them, it could be a scam.
Fake Online Gift Exchanges
Scammers exploit the popularity of secret gift exchanges by creating fake events that promise participants numerous gifts for the price of a small contribution. Users may be asked to provide personal information to join the online gift exchange, which is subsequently used for nefarious purposes. Always be skeptical of such offers and check for legitimacy.
Gift Card Scams
Gift cards are a favorite among scammers since they are difficult to trace. Fraudsters may set up fake stores or sell bogus gift cards at discounted rates, luring customers into purchasing cards with no value. Always purchase gift cards from reputable retailers to ensure their security.
Lookalike Online Stores
Scammers often design fake websites that resemble reputable retailers, luring consumers with enticing discounts. Once on these sites, consumers risk having their credit card information stolen. Always navigate directly to a known store’s website rather than following links from social media ads or emails.
4 Tips for Safely Shopping Online for the Holidays
To keep your online shopping safe this holiday season, consider these four essential tips:
1. Be Cautious With Emails
You should exercise caution when opening emails from unfamiliar senders and avoid clicking on links from unsolicited messages, especially if the deal appears too good to be true.
2. Shop on Trusted Websites
While clicking on a flashy ad might be tempting, stick to reputable websites. For safer browsing, manually enter the URLs of trusted retailers in your address bar.
3. Monitor Financial Statements
Check your bank and credit card statements regularly, especially during the busy shopping season. Frequent checking can help you catch unauthorized transactions early.
4. Use Secure Networks
Avoid shopping over unsecured public Wi-Fi, as this can expose your personal information. Ensure your home network is secured with robust encryption and a strong passphrase.
Remember to stay vigilant while shopping online as you celebrate the holiday season. By being aware of potential scams and following these safety tips, you can enjoy a worry-free shopping experience. Happy holidays and happy shopping!
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This material is for informational purposes only and is not legal or business advice. Neither AmTrust Financial Services, Inc. nor any of its subsidiaries or affiliates represents or warrants that the information contained herein is appropriate or suitable for any specific business or legal purpose. Readers seeking resolution of specific questions should consult their business and/or legal advisors. Coverages may vary by location. Contact your local RSM for more information.