Black Friday gives cybercriminals a golden opportunity for scams. They can use social media, email messages and more to entice you to buy or share personal information. Follow these tips to stay safe during Black Friday.
- Phishing emails – Be cautious of emails promising exclusive deals. Scammers often mimic trusted retailers, but their links may lead to fake websites designed to steal your personal or payment information. Hover over links to check if the URL matches the retailer’s website or go directly to the retailer’s website instead of clicking links.
- Beware of fake social media ads – Social media is often used during the holiday season, and often times they are scams. Avoid clicking on ads from unknown brands. Pay attention to comments on the post. Other users may flag scams.
- Protect your personal information – Scammers may ask for unnecessary information during checkout. A legitimate retailer will only require the details needed to process your order.
- Keep your devices secure – Shopping on unsecured devices or public Wi-Fi can expose you to cyber threats. Use strong passwords and enable multi-factor authentication on accounts. Shop on your own device with up-to-date antivirus protection. Avoid entering payment information on public Wi-Fi unless you use a VPN.
Stay vigilant and keep your personal and financial information safe.
