Stay Cyber Safe While Shopping This Holiday Season
The holidays are just around the corner, and for many of us, that means getting a jump on holiday shopping! With so many amazing deals and a world of products available at our fingertips, online shopping has become the go-to way to get everything on our gift lists. But as we start clicking "add to cart," it's more important than ever to stay vigilant. The holiday season is also a busy time for cybercriminals, who see it as an opportunity to take advantage of unsuspecting shoppers. At Unity Catholic FCU, your financial well-being is our top priority, and we want to help you shop smart and stay safe online this season.
To ensure your holiday shopping is filled with cheer and not with fear, here are some key tips to keep in mind:
Spot the Fakes: Be vigilant for fake retail websites and phishing emails. A legitimate website will have a secure connection, indicated by "https://" at the beginning of the URL and a padlock icon in the address bar. Watch for typos, grammatical errors, and a general lack of professionalism on the site; these are all red flags. Similarly, be cautious of emails with urgent requests or "too good to be true" offers. Always visit the retailer's official website directly, rather than clicking on links in emails.
Strengthen Your Security: This is the perfect time to update your passwords. Use strong, unique passwords for each of your online shopping accounts, and consider using a password manager to keep track of them. Wherever possible, enable two-factor authentication (2FA). This extra layer of security requires a second form of verification, like a code sent to your phone, making it much harder for cybercriminals to access your accounts even if they have your password.
Mobile Shopping Safety: When shopping on your phone, ensure you're using a secure Wi-Fi network. Avoid making purchases when connected to public, unsecured Wi-Fi. Always download shopping apps from official app stores (such as the Apple App Store or Google Play Store) and be sure to check the reviews and developer information.
Monitor Your Accounts: Keep a close eye on your credit and debit card statements. Check your accounts regularly for any suspicious or unauthorized activity. Many financial institutions, including Unity Catholic FCU, offer transaction alerts that notify you of purchases in real-time. If you spot anything that looks wrong, report it immediately.
By following these simple steps, you can help protect your personal and financial information while enjoying the fun of holiday shopping. We are here to help you navigate the digital world safely, so you can focus on finding the perfect gifts for your loved ones. Happy and safe shopping from your friends at Unity Catholic FCU!