FIVE TIPS TO ENSURE A SAFE HOLIDAY SHOPPING SEASON

Take Precautions When Making Holiday Purchases with a Smartphone

Before making a purchase through an ad on social media, or even downloading a coupon, perform an internet search about the ad you received for words like “complaint” or “reviews” — you may uncover a scam related to the promotional offer.

Be Smart about Application Downloads

Be cautious about what you are downloading and pay attention to details. Scammers can take advantage of those signing up for subscriptions by luring them into a short-lived free trial that then converts into an expensive, recurring expense.

Protect Children’s Identity on Gaming Consoles

While children will be eager to play on their new console, be sure to review the rules and set up the system with them prior to them playing. It’s important to create a strong password that includes upper and lowercase letters, numbers and symbols. Make children aware that game masters will never ask for login information. Before purchasing a game online, make sure the URL of the web site begins with “https” and use a credit card instead of debit card. View more tips here for protecting your child while gaming.

Return Fraud

Remember to take receipts out of your shopping bags when you are returning items. You can have personal information on those receipts that identity thieves can use to steal your identity.

Educate Tweens and Teens About Safe Online Shopping

Teens will be shopping online this year to buy holiday gifts for friends and family. It's a great time to encourage them to get a head start in protecting themselves from identity theft. Educate them on how to protect their bank accounts by managing passwords and using anti-virus software or internet security software.