The convenience of shopping online has made it a popular choice for millions of people around the world. With Cyber Monday just around the corner, many shoppers are looking forward to snagging the best deals from the comfort of their own homes. However, with great convenience comes the risk of cyber threats. Protecting your money while shopping online is more important than ever. Here are some key points to consider to keep your financial information safe during the holiday online shopping season.

Verify the Authenticity of Websites and Apps

Beware of fake websites that look like popular retailer sites. Scammers use these sites to steal your payment information without sending any products. These cyber criminals may also request permissions to your personal data such as contacts, passwords, or text messages. Be safe – verify the legitimacy of any website or app before providing any personal information. ScamAdviser is a reputable site-checker you might try. Simply type the website address you are planning to use and gain information on its trustworthiness! Check it out at https://www.scamadviser.com/

Check Before You Pay

Before making a purchase online, make sure to ensure the website you are using is secure. Two simple yet effective methods for confirming a secure connection include:

  1. Look for "https" at the beginning of the URL (web address), and
  2. Confirm a padlock icon appears in the browser when starting a secure session such as entering credit card information.

These important steps can help protect your personal information from hackers and cybercriminals.

Avoid Using Public Wifi

Avoid using public wifi networks for online shopping as there are security risks associated with these free connections. Scammers have been known to exploit vulnerabilities in public wifi networks, enabling them to intercept and steal personal data such as credit card numbers, passwords, and other sensitive information. Take precautions and only use secure, password-protected networks or virtual private networks (VPNs) when conducting online transactions or providing confidential data.

Use Caution when Receiving Shopping Emails

With the holidays approaching, you may see an increased number of emails offering shopping deals. It is important to exercise caution when receiving emails from unfamiliar sources and be sure to refrain from clicking on any embedded links. Cyber criminals often use phishing emails as a means to gain access to sensitive information or spread malware. These fraudulent emails are designed to appear legitimate, often mimicking reputable companies or institutions, making it challenging for recipients to discern their authenticity. Before clicking on an email link, be sure to review the sender’s email address to ensure its being sent from the retailer’s domain. If in doubt, it’s recommended you visit their website directly versus clicking on links in an email.

Be Aware of Package Delivery Scams

Delivery scams typically start with a text message or email claiming they have your package ready for delivery. These messages may include a tracking link or a call-back number, requesting you update your delivery or payment preferences, or asking for personal information to confirm you’re the intended package recipient. It’s important you never click on a link or return a call for an unexpected delivery notice. To ensure legitimacy, always verify the sender's identity by contacting the delivery carrier or seller directly.

Online shopping offers unparalleled convenience, but it's important to be cautious and protect your money and personal information. By avoiding these scams, you can enjoy a safer shopping experience this Cyber Monday and beyond.

PRO TIP: Keep an eye on credit card statements, bank accounts, and online transactions to spot any unauthorized purchases or withdrawals. If you notice anything unusual, contact your bank right away. You might also consider enrolling in alert services. FNC Bank offers notifications for specific account activities including: Login from new device, Email address change, Password change, Mobile phone change, and Username changed. To set your alerts, sign in to online banking, select your name in the lower left corner, then Account settings, then User alerts. If you need assistance, contact us at 715-246-6901.