5 Simple Steps to Stay Safe Online While Shopping This Holiday Season

Holiday shopping has never been easier—or more digital. From flash sales to last-minute gifts, more of us are turning to our phones, tablets, and laptops to check off our lists. But with all that convenience comes risk: cybercriminals are on the lookout for shoppers who let their guard down.

The good news? Staying safe doesn’t have to be complicated. Here are five simple steps to protect yourself while shopping online this season.

1. Shop on Secure Websites

Before entering payment details, make sure the website address begins with https:// (the “s” stands for secure) and look for a small padlock icon in the browser bar. Stick to trusted retailers you know and avoid clicking on unfamiliar pop-up ads or email links.

2. Use Strong, Unique Passwords

Don’t recycle the same password for every account. A strong password should include a mix of letters, numbers, and symbols. Even better, use a password manager to keep track of them—it saves time and adds security.

3. Beware of Holiday Scams

If a deal looks too good to be true, it probably is. Scammers often create fake websites or send phishing emails offering huge discounts. Double-check the sender’s email address, and when in doubt, go directly to the retailer’s official website instead of clicking links.

4. Shop with Secure Networks

Avoid shopping on public Wi-Fi in places like coffee shops or airports—these networks are easy targets for hackers. If you need to shop on the go, use your phone’s data connection or a secure home Wi-Fi network.

5. Monitor Your Accounts

Keep an eye on your bank and credit card statements during and after the holidays. Set up alerts for purchases so you’ll know right away if something suspicious happens. The faster you catch it, the easier it is to resolve.