Stay Scam-Savvy: Your Essential Guide to Safe Holiday Shopping

A Guide to Dodging Grinches and Shopping Scams: 2024 Edition

The festive season is upon us, and while we're busy seeking the best bargains, online grinches and scammers are equally hard at work trying to ruin the joy. Here's how to stay secure online while shopping and celebrating this year.

Stay Ahead of Scammers

Fortify Your Passwords:

Passwords are your first line of defence. Use strong combinations of letters, numbers, and symbols – and avoid obvious choices like your pet’s name or "password123." Consider using a password manager for added security.

Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA):

Pair your password with 2FA for added protection. Think of it as a digital double lock, making it far harder for anyone to access your accounts.

Keep Devices Up-to-Date:

Ensure your operating system, apps, and antivirus software are all current. Regular updates help protect against the latest cyber threats.

Use Secure Internet Connections:

Avoid shopping or entering personal details over public Wi-Fi. If you must use it, consider a Virtual Private Network (VPN) for added security. At home, ensure your broadband router is password-protected and encrypted.

Spotting the Scams

Beware of Phishing Emails and Messages:

Scammers often impersonate well-known companies in emails, texts, or social media messages to steal your details. Be cautious of messages claiming you've won a prize, need to reset a password, or offering deals that seem too good to be true. Verify any suspicious claims by contacting the company directly.

Stick to Secure Websites:

Shop only on trusted retailer websites. Look for "https://" and a padlock icon in the address bar. Avoid unfamiliar sites offering unbelievable discounts.

Keep an Eye on Your Bank Statements:

Regularly check your bank and credit card statements for unusual transactions. If you spot anything suspicious, notify your bank immediately.

2024’s Most Common Shopping Scams

Here are some scams making the rounds this year:

Fake Retail Websites: Fraudsters set up fake online shops that mimic trusted brands. Always verify website addresses and look for reviews.
Social Media Ad Scams: Be wary of ads offering "exclusive deals" or "limited-time discounts." Check the retailer's official website to confirm these offers.
Bogus Delivery Notifications: Watch out for fake emails or texts about undelivered parcels. Scammers use these to steal personal details or infect your device with malware.
Gift Card Fraud: Be cautious of offers for discounted gift cards—they're often fake or used to extract sensitive information.
Overpayment Scams: Selling online? Beware of buyers offering to pay more than the asking price and requesting a refund for the "extra" amount.
Fake Customer Service Numbers: Scammers may advertise fake helplines to steal your personal details. Always confirm contact details via the retailer's official website.

Top Tips for Safe Shopping

Think Before You Click: Ignore unsolicited emails or texts claiming "incredible deals." Visit the retailer’s official site directly.
Stay Sceptical: If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.
Verify All Details: Check website URLs, sender addresses, and customer reviews before making a purchase.

With these tips, you can enjoy the festive season with peace of mind, free from online grinches. Let’s make 2024 a year to celebrate safely and scam-free!

Stay safe, shop smart, and happy holidays!

Anna Musialik
Office Manager