19 Dec 2024
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The Christmas holiday season is a time of joy and generosity, but unfortunately, it’s also a peak season for online shopping scams.
Back in the day, shopping for bargains was all about fighting your way to the front of the queue to grab that coveted pair of pants or shiny new sneaker drop.
Nowadays, we’re more likely to be poised over our smartphones, thumbs ready to pounce on online deals. Cybercriminals know people are in a rush to grab the best deals and often let their guard down. Here’s how you can shop safely and ensure your Christmas and New Year remains merry and bright.
Common Online Shopping Scams
Fake Websites: Scammers create counterfeit websites that mimic legitimate retailers. These sites often lure shoppers with unbelievable discounts on popular items.
Phishing Emails: Be cautious of emails that claim to offer exclusive deals or require urgent action. These often lead to malicious links or ask for sensitive information.
Social Media Ads: Fraudsters use social media platforms to promote fake deals. These ads may direct you to scam websites or collect payment without delivering the product.
Gift Card Scams: Offers to buy discounted gift cards from unverified sources can be fraudulent. Once purchased, the cards often turn out to be worthless.
Tips to Stay Safe
- Keep your software up to date: Regularly update your antivirus software, device operating system, apps, and web browsers to protect against cyber threats.
- Use strong, unique passwords: Use a password manager to generate and store strong passwords and change them regularly.
- Verify Websites: Always shop from trusted retailers. Check the URL for spelling errors and ensure it starts with "https://"
- Be Wary of Too-Good-to-Be-True Deals: If an offer seems suspiciously cheap, it likely is. Compare prices on reputable websites before purchasing.
- Use Secure Payment Methods: opt for credit cards, BPay or trusted payment services like PayPal, which offer additional fraud protection.
- Avoid Clicking Unknown Links: Whether in emails, texts, or ads, avoid clicking on unverified links. Instead, visit the retailer’s official website directly.
- Monitor Bank Statements: Regularly check your account for unauthorised transactions and report any suspicious activity immediately.
- Educate yourself. Stay informed about common scams and check out ScamWatch for updates on current fraud tactics.
What to do if you’ve been scammed
If the worst happens, don’t panic. If no goods show up or you suspect you've been a victim of a scam, act quickly. Get in touch with your bank and report the incident to ScamWatch.
When you report the scam, the people who read your report understand how you are feeling. You are not alone. Contacting support services can help you understand what happened but also tells authorities about scam activities so they can work on making it harder for scams to succeed.
A Merry and Scam-Free Christmas
Shopping online can be convenient and enjoyable, but vigilance is key to avoiding scams. By taking precautions, you can ensure your gifts reach loved ones and your Christmas and New Year stay stress-free.
Stay safe, shop smart, and have a joyous Christmas season!
As always, if you have any questions or your personal circumstances have changed please do not hesitate to contact your financial adviser.
General Advice Warning - Any advice included in this article has been prepared without taking into account your objectives, financial situation or needs. Before acting on the advice, you should consider whether it’s appropriate to you, in light of your objectives, financial situation or needs.
