Stop, Research and Roll!

December 17, 2024

Do you ever have a “funny feeling” after you make a purchase online? The hustle and bustle of the holiday season usually has us scrambling near the middle of December to find that perfect holiday gift. While online shopping can be the best time saver, ALWAYS do you research first from where you are buying! It could save you overall.

Check out these last-minute holiday shopping tips to keep you safe during the holidays!

Use Trusted, Secure Websites Look for HTTPS:
When shopping online, ensure the website URL starts with "https://" and displays a padlock symbol next to it. This means the website uses encryption to protect your payment information.

Avoid Public Wi-Fi for Transactions
Never make purchases or access banking apps while connected to public Wi-Fi. Hackers can easily intercept sensitive data on unsecured networks. Use a secure, private network or a VPN (Virtual Private Network) when making online purchases.

Monitor Your Statements Regularly
Regularly review your bank and credit card statements for any unusual transactions. If you spot something suspicious, report it to your bank immediately. Use transaction alerts via SMS or email, which can help you stay on top of activity.

Do not Save Card Information on Websites
Avoid saving your debit card details on e-commerce websites. While it can be convenient for future purchases, it also increases the risk of exposure if the website suffers a data breach.
 
As always, if you have any questions about your online account, transactions or just want to keep your account more secure, please contact us at 812-852-1600!