Black Friday has transformed from crowded store aisles into an online shopping extravaganza. The most significant savings are now just a click away, but so are the scammers hoping to take advantage of the rush. The key to winning big is knowing how to spot the traps while enjoying the deals.
With a few simple strategies, you can shop confidently, protect your information, and make the most of this year’s Black Friday bargains.
Strategy #1: Stick to Retailers You Know and Trust
While a flashy “75% off” ad might catch your attention, it’s worth pausing before you click. Well-known retailers are more likely to have secure websites and reliable customer service. If you’re exploring a new store, take a few moments to check reviews, confirm their contact information, and ensure their website address starts with “https” (the “s” stands for secure).
Strategy #2: Use Strong, Unique Passwords for Shopping Accounts
Black Friday shopping often means logging into multiple online accounts. Make sure each one has its own strong password—preferably a mix of letters, numbers, and symbols. Using the same password for multiple accounts makes you more vulnerable if one is compromised.
Strategy #3: Shop on Secure Networks
It’s tempting to browse deals while sipping your favorite coffee, but public Wi-Fi isn’t always secure. Hackers can intercept sensitive information, such as credit card numbers, if you’re not careful. If you must shop on public Wi-Fi, use a Virtual Private Network (VPN) to encrypt your connection, or wait until you’re on a trusted, secure network.
Strategy #4. Keep an Eye Out for “Too Good to Be True” Prices
While Black Friday deals can be amazing, they’re rarely unbelievable. If you see a high-demand item at a suspiciously low price from an unfamiliar seller, it might be a scam. Be sure to compare prices from multiple sources—that way, if one price is wildly lower than others, you can dig deeper before you buy.
Strategy #5. Pay with a Credit Card (Not a Debit Card)
Credit cards generally offer better fraud protection than debit cards, making it easier to dispute charges if something goes wrong. Some also provide purchase protection or extended warranties, which is a nice bonus. Check out the credit card options available at Quail Creek Bank.
Strategy #6: Watch Out for Fake Tracking Emails
After you place an order, you’ll usually get a real tracking email from the retailer. Unfortunately, scammers send convincing fakes as well. Clicking a link in one of these can install malware and compromise your personal information. To stay safe, skip the links and check your order status by logging in directly on the retailer’s official website.
Strategy #7: Enable Multi-Factor Authentication
If a retailer offers multi-factor authentication for your account, turn it on. It adds an extra layer of security by requiring a code (sent to your phone or email) in addition to your password.
Strategy #8: Stay Organized and Monitor Your Statements
The flurry of purchases on Black Friday can make it easy to miss unusual charges. Keep a running list of your orders and compare it to your bank or credit card statement. You can also set up account alerts to be notified of transactions exceeding a certain amount or purchases made without your card present.
Strategy #9: Update Your Devices Before Shopping
Security patches on your phone, tablet, or computer help protect you from the latest threats. Make sure your operating system, browsers, and apps are up to date before diving into your online shopping. And finally, set your devices to automatic updates so you’re always protected.
Shop Smart, Score Big
Black Friday is one of the most exciting shopping days of the year, and the convenience of online deals makes it even better. With a little preparation and some smart habits, you can shop with confidence, knowing your personal and financial information is secure. So go ahead—fill your cart, enjoy the deals, and check out with peace of mind.
