With Black Friday kicking off the holiday shopping season, you have a wonderful opportunity to find great deals and gifts for loved ones. As you browse online, a little awareness can go a long way to keeping your experience safe and enjoyable. Last year, 34 million Americans encountered scammers during Black Friday and Cyber Monday, but with a few simple precautions, you can shop with confidence.
Here are some friendly reminders to help you stay safe:
- Use secure networks when shopping online: Always make purchases over trusted Wi-Fi connections instead of public networks. This helps protect your personal and financial information from cybercriminals.
- Watch out for fake delivery messages: If you’re expecting packages, be alert for fake shipment notifications. Scammers may send emails or texts about shipping issues to trick you into clicking links or sharing sensitive information. When in doubt, contact the shipping company directly using their official website or phone number.
- Be cautious with purchase alerts: If you receive a text, email, or call with a warning about an unfamiliar charge, remain calm and don’t act immediately. Scammers often try to create a sense of urgency. Always verify purchase alerts through your bank or retailer using their official contact information before responding.
- Question deals that seem too good to be true: Tempting offers can appear during holiday sales, but if something feels suspicious, trust your instincts. Stick to reputable retailers, check reviews from other shoppers, and don’t be afraid to walk away from offers that seem unrealistic.
Additional smart tips:
- For in-store shopping, choose chip or contactless payment methods for added protection.
- Monitor your purchase history regularly using your mobile banking app to quickly spot any unauthorized transactions.
- Keep an eye on packages and other mail deliveries to prevent porch theft or mail fraud.
Reporting Suspicious Activity
If you spot a scam or notice suspicious activity, report it right away. SmartBank is here to help:
- Client Services: 1.866.290.2554
- Email: ReportFraud@smartbank.com
Also report to law enforcement:
- Your local police department
- The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) at reportfraud.ftc.gov