Black Friday and Cyber Monday may have started life across the pond, but this retail phenomenon is firmly a major shopping event here in the UK, with many retailers offering huge discounts on a wide range of products. While this can be a great opportunity to save money, it’s also important to be aware of the risks of online shopping.
Here are some tips to help you stay safe when shopping online this Black Friday/Cyber Monday weekend:
- Shop from reputable retailers.
Only shop from websites that you know and trust. If you’re not sure whether a retailer is legitimate, do some research online. Look out for the đź”’ along with reviews from other shoppers and check the retailer’s website for contact information and a UK address.
- Use a secure payment method.
When using your debit and credit card make sure you only buy from retailers who have secure security links. These payment methods offer protection in case of fraud.
- Be careful about phishing scams.
Phishing scams are emails or text messages that try to trick you into revealing personal information, such as your credit card number or password. These scams often look like they are from a legitimate company but are clever ways to obtain your personal details.
- Beware of fake deals.
If a deal seems too good to be true, it probably is. Scammers often use fake deals to lure in victims. Be sure to compare prices from different retailers before making a purchase. Don’t be rushed into a hasty purchase that could cost you more in the long run.
- Keep your software up to date.
Outdated software can contain security vulnerabilities that scammers can exploit. Make sure that your operating system, web browser, and other software are up to date.
- Report any suspicious activity.
If you think you may have been the victim of an online scam, be sure to report it to the authorities. You can also report scams to Action Fraud at https://www.actionfraud.police.uk/: https://www.actionfraud.police.uk/.
 Additional tips:
- Avoid using public Wi-Fi to make online purchases.
- Be wary of emails or text messages that ask you to click on a link or open an attachment.
- If you’re unsure about a website or deal, it’s always best to err on the side of caution and avoid making a purchase.
- Shop from UK retailers to avoid potential currency exchange fees and high shipping costs.
By following these tips, you can help protect yourself when shopping, helping you have the best Black Friday/Cyber Monday shopping experience.Â
