12 Cyber Monday Safety Tips for Retailers in 2022
The Californer/10219782

COSTA MESA, Calif. - Californer -- Online scams happen every minute on Cyber Monday, the Monday after Thanksgiving, which is also a great day to save on merchandise  in-store and online. While you are protected by homeowners insurance if your purchases are stolen out of your car or right out of your hands, things get more complicated with purchases made online. The Internet is ripe with fraudulent retailers looking to cash in on the holiday season, so it's good to know how to prevent becoming the victim of a scam and what to do if the worst happens.

Remember that in 2019, cybercriminals created nearly 100,000 fake online-shopping websites that looked so real that they lured in thousands of shoppers and scammed them. And credit-card stealing malware has hit Macy's and other large retailers.

Here are some ways to avoid getting ripped off Cyber Monday 2022 while shopping for great deals:

1. Use a secure device, whether it's a computer, laptop, tablet or cellphone. Make sure it has virus and malware protection on it.
2. Shop online with reputable retailers only. Many bad actors prepare for this season by setting up websites with recognizable logos and such. Always check the URL to see if it seems suspect.
3. Be on the lookout for fake storefronts online. Avoid them by going directly to reputable retailers. Your best bet is to Google the store or website you want to buy from, instead of clicking on links sent to you in an email. This is how many people fall victim to cyber criminals.
4. Shop on secure websites only. A secure site's URL should start with HTTPS and not HTTP.  Look for an ecommerce website with an SSL certificate and TLS technology so that your data is only shared between you and that retailer.
5. When creating an account with a retailer, use strong passwords. Avoid other passwords you use, common names, pet names and birthdays. If possible, use a password manager.
6. Use a credit card instead of a debit card. You can always dispute a charge on a credit card but not on a debit card.
7. Don't save your credit card information on a website. Don't be lazy because it's not safe. Even if you're certain you've reached the right retailer, it's safer to enter your information again next time you shop in case there's ever a data breach.
8. Buy a virtual card. These are one-time use credit cards that are linked to your real cards but usually expire after one.

For 4 more tips visit https://smartfinancial.com/cyber-monday-safety-tips

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