The holidays are prime time for scammers. Between flash sales, delivery updates, gift cards, and travel plans, cyber-criminals count on people moving fast and clicking first. In this video, we break down simple, real-world steps you can take to protect your money, your accounts, and your identity while shopping online.

✅ Holiday cyber-safety checklist

- Shop only on trusted sites: Type the web address yourself or use official apps—avoid random links in texts, emails, and ads.

- Watch for fake deals: If a price looks too good to be true, it probably is. Check the seller, reviews, and return policy.

- Secure payments: Use a credit card or secure payment service (better fraud protection). Avoid debit cards for online purchases.

- Enable 2-Factor Authentication (2FA): Turn it on for email, banking, and shopping accounts—especially your email (it’s the “master key”).

- Use strong, unique passwords: A password manager helps you avoid reusing passwords across multiple sites.

- Beware of delivery scams: Fake “package delayed” or “address problem” messages are common. Track orders from the retailer’s official site/app.

- Avoid public Wi-Fi for purchases: If you must, use a trusted VPN—otherwise wait until you’re on your home network.

- Don’t buy gift cards from strangers: And never share gift card codes with anyone claiming you “owe” money.

- Keep devices updated: Updates patch security holes that scammers actively exploit.

- Check statements regularly: Spot small “test charges” early—report anything suspicious immediately.

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