Black Friday and Cyber Monday are some of the biggest online shopping events of the year, offering shoppers incredible deals across all kinds of products. While’s it an exciting time for consumers, it’s also a prime opportunity for cybercriminals. Online fraud, phishing scams, and fake websites become far more common during this period, putting shoppers’ personal and financial data at risk.

Below are some essential tips to help you stay secure while shopping online.

First, always shop on trusted websites. Stick to well-known brands and enter their URLs manually in your browser rather than clicking on links from emails or ads. Before making a purchase, check that the website address begins with “https://” and that a padlock icon is visible as this means your connection is encrypted. Avoid using public Wi-Fi when making online purchases, as unsecured networks can expose your data to hackers. If you’re on the go, it’s safer to use mobile data or a virtual private network (VPN).

It’s also important to keep your online accounts secure. Use strong, unique passwords for your retail and banking accounts, and consider using a password manager to help manage them safely. Wherever possible, enable two-factor authentication (2FA) for an extra layer of protection. When it comes to payments, choose secure methods like cards, virtual cards or digital wallets. Many banks, including ours, provide the ability to freeze or manage your card instantly through their app.

As you shop, stay alert for deals that seem too good to be true as they often are. If you’re unfamiliar with a website, take a moment to research it or check reviews from other shoppers. And after making a purchase, keep a copy of your receipt and track your order. Most importantly, regularly monitor your bank account to quickly spot any suspicious activity. If anything looks out of place, contact your Bank immediately.

While Black Friday is a great opportunity to grab bargains, it’s important to shop smart. By following these simple security steps, you can enjoy all the perks of online shopping without putting your finances at risk. Remember safe shopping isn’t just for Black Friday, it’s a good habit all year round.