“Stay Safe While Shopping Online: FBI Warns of Holiday Season Scams – US News Today Live Updates | November 30, 2024”
As Black Friday approaches and holiday shopping kicks into high gear, the FBI is warning shoppers to be on high alert for online scams. With more people turning to online shopping due to the ongoing pandemic, cybercriminals are taking advantage of the situation to target unsuspecting consumers.
The FBI is urging shoppers to be cautious when making online purchases and to take steps to protect their personal and financial information. Some tips to avoid falling for online scams include:
1. Be wary of deals that seem too good to be true. If a price seems much lower than usual, it could be a scam.
2. Only shop on secure websites. Look for “https” in the URL and a padlock symbol in the address bar.
3. Avoid clicking on links in unsolicited emails or messages. Always go directly to the retailer’s website to make a purchase.
4. Use strong, unique passwords for each online account and enable two-factor authentication when possible.
5. Check your credit card and bank statements regularly for any unauthorized charges.
With these tips in mind, shoppers can protect themselves from falling victim to online scams this holiday season. Stay informed and stay safe while shopping online this Black Friday and beyond.