Online Shopping Tips

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Make your online shopping secure and enjoy a stress-free holiday season by following these tips.

According to the FTC*, online shopping scams were the second most reported type of fraud in 2023. While online shopping is super convenient, it's important to shop smart! Staying alert can help you catch potential scams early, allowing you to enjoy your shopping experience even more.

Shop with Reputable Companies

  • Research the product and seller and check for reviews to make sure you are purchasing from a trustworthy source. You can also check out the Better Business Bureau’s tips for spotting fake reviews.
  • Look for “HTTPS” in the URL (the extra s stands for “secure”) and a small lock icon in the address bar. This icon indicates a secure connection, shielding your data from prying eyes.
  • Expect a rise in phishing scams during the holidays. To protect yourself, always steer clear of clicking on links in unsolicited emails or ads.
Protect Your Personal Information
  • Criminals often target your personal data, not just your payment info. Websites may ask you to complete surveys or forms in exchange for discounts. Remain vigilant of what data you provide, to whom, and for what purpose.
  • Protect your identity with strong, complex passwords and enable Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA). Store your credentials securely in a password manager.
  • Keep your devices updated to ensure security and protect against malware.

Use Secure Payment Methods

  • A credit card protects the money in your bank account and gives you added protections like Visa Purchase Alerts and ID Navigator powered by Norton LifeLock. It is likely a scam if the seller asks you to pay using unusual methods, such as
    Zelle®, gift card, money order, pre-paid money card, or wire transfer.
  • Use digital wallets for easier, more secure purchases.
  • Set up eAlerts to receive email or text notifications about account activity.

Trust Your Instincts

Trust your gut! It’s way better to skip a great deal than to get caught in a scam. Contact us right away with any fraud concerns—we’re here to help keep your finances safe.

 

We will NEVER contact you by phone, email, or through social media channels to solicit confidential, personal, and/or account information. This includes Digital Banking credentials, personal identification numbers, one-time passwords, or debit or credit card information (expiration date or CVV number).

 

* Federal Trade Commission: February 9, 2024. New Data Shows FTC Received 2.6 million fraud reports from consumers in 2023.


IF YOU SUSPECT FRAUD

If you suspect you’ve been a victim of a scam, let us know immediately so we can help you review your account and dispute any charges if needed. Also, report the incident to the FTC at ReportFraud.ftc.gov.

 

Additional Fraud Resources

 

Watch this video to learn more online shopping tips.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Magnifi Financial is committed to arming you with the necessary tools and information to protect yourself. Check out our fraud prevention resource page to learn more.