As Black Friday approaches on November 24, 2023, savvy shoppers in Daytona Beach, Florida, are gearing up to hunt for the best deals. However, while you’re busy snagging discounts, it’s crucial to keep your online shopping safe. With the rise of AI-generated scams and cyber threats, vigilance is more important than ever. Here’s your handy checklist to ensure a secure shopping experience this holiday season.
Black Friday Online Shopping Safety Checklist
Be Aware of Phishing & Quishing Attacks
Watch out for phishing attacks that aim to steal your personal information. One common tactic is quishing, where scammers use QR codes to redirect you to fake websites. Always be cautious when scanning QR codes—if it seems suspicious, it probably is. Before you scan, think twice!
Read the Small Print
If a deal looks too good to be true, it probably is. Always read the fine print before making a purchase. Look for details like the retailer’s reputation score and ensure there’s a physical address listed on their website. If you see pop-ups offering free electronics, steer clear; these are often scams designed to harvest your data.
Use Reputable Websites/Companies
Stick with well-known retailers when shopping online. While you might pay a little extra, the peace of mind knowing your purchase is secure is worth it. Additionally, ensure your antivirus software is up to date to help identify potentially dangerous sites.
Stop, Look, Check, Pay
Before entering any personal information, check that the website starts with HTTPS, indicating it uses Secure Sockets Layer (SSL) encryption. Always verify that the website you’re on matches the legitimate retailer’s site; typos in the URL can be a red flag. If you’re using public Wi-Fi for shopping, consider using a VPN to protect your data from prying eyes.
Check Your Bank Account
Use credit cards or secure payment methods like PayPal for added protection against fraud. Monitor your bank statements regularly for unauthorized transactions and only provide necessary information during checkout.
Keep Your Passwords Safe & Don’t Use Default Credentials
Avoid using default passwords for any accounts or devices. These are often easy targets for hackers. Create strong passwords and change them regularly to keep your accounts secure.
Enjoy Black Friday in Daytona Beach, Florida
Shopping in Daytona Beach offers more than just great deals; it’s an experience filled with excitement and community spirit. With beautiful beaches as your backdrop and vibrant local shops ready to welcome you, this city transforms into a shopper’s paradise during the holiday season. Take advantage of local sales while enjoying the sunny Florida weather—who says shopping can’t be fun?
Stay Smart While You Shop
This Black Friday, equip yourself with these safety tips to ensure a smooth and secure shopping experience in Daytona Beach. Remember, while you’re hunting for those amazing deals, keeping your personal information safe should always be a top priority. Happy shopping!
Source: securityhq.com
Header Image Source: effectiveretailleader.com
