Across the nation, holiday shoppers turned out in large numbers over the long holiday weekend in search of bargains, and that surge is expected to continue today as consumers flock online for Cyber Monday deals.
With the rise in online purchases, however, cybersecurity experts are warning shoppers to be on high alert for scammers looking to take advantage of unsuspecting buyers.
From fake websites and phishing emails to fraudulent shipping notifications and social media ads offering “too-good-to-be-true” prices, scammers use a variety of tactics to steal personal and financial information. Experts say criminals often create sites that closely mimic legitimate retailers, making it difficult for consumers to know the difference.
“Cyber Monday is one of the most popular shopping days of the year, and that also makes it a prime target for online fraud,” said one industry analyst. “Scammers know people are in a hurry to grab the best deals, and they exploit that sense of urgency.”
Authorities recommend several steps to stay safe while shopping online:
- Only purchase from trusted, well-known retailers
- Double-check website addresses for errors or unusual characters
- Avoid clicking on links in unsolicited emails or text messages
- Use secure payment methods, such as credit cards
- Monitor bank and credit card statements for unauthorized charges
Consumers are also urged to keep devices updated with the latest security software and avoid using public Wi-Fi networks for purchases that require sensitive information.
While millions of legitimate deals are available, officials stress that a little caution can go a long way in preventing identity theft and financial loss.
As shoppers finalize their holiday lists, experts say awareness is the best defense against Cyber Monday scams.
