Whether it’s finding the perfect festive season gifts or stocking up on school supplies, peak shopping periods offer incredible deals – but they also come with increased scams. Cybercriminals know that shoppers are more vulnerable when deals are flying in, and they step up their efforts to exploit any security weaknesses during these times.

Let’s break down the high-risk shopping seasons and how you can stay ahead of online shopping fraud while enjoying the best offers.

The high-stakes shopping periods

Don’t gift fraudsters a win! The festive season is a time for gifting but it’s a popular time for fraudsters to take advantage of the overwhelming increase in online transactions. Many people fall victim to scams posing as “special holiday offers.”

Common types of online shopping fraud

During these shopping peaks, here’s what you need to watch out for:

  • Phishing and fake websites: Scammers send out mass emails or set up websites that appear to be legitimate retailers (spoof sites). Often, these websites use slight spelling changes in URLs or copy the look and feel of reputable sites to trick shoppers into providing personal information.
  • Fake online stores: Around festive season sales, some stores pop up offering extreme discounts on in-demand products. These stores take your money but never deliver the products.
  • Identity theft: With more personal information being shared online during these periods, identity theft remains a major concern. Fraudsters steal your information during fake transactions or phishing attacks and use it for unauthorised purchases.

How to shop safely during peak periods

Avoid online scams during busy shopping periods by keeping your data secure.

Here are a few steps you can take:

  • Double-check the website: Make sure the site you’re purchasing from is legitimate. Check for “https://” in the URL and avoid websites with unfamiliar or misspelt names.
  • Use credit cards or secure online payment platforms: When shopping online, stick to using your credit card because they often have better fraud protection and are easier to cancel if something goes wrong.
  • Avoid deals that seem too good to be true: Be cautious of extreme discounts, especially on luxury items or electronics. Scammers know that big sales attract impulsive buyers and they will often draw you in with deals that are simply too good to be real.
  • Keep your software updated: Fraudsters often exploit outdated software to access your information. Keep your browser, operating system and antivirus software up to date to reduce vulnerabilities.
  • Review your bank statements frequently: With so many transactions during peak periods, it’s necessary to review your statements often. Look for unauthorised purchases and report any suspicious activity immediately.

Report fraud quickly

Were you a victim of fraud? Report it immediately using these contact details:

 

011 256 9988

[email protected]

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