The holiday shopping season is underway, with consumers expected to spend $253.4 billion online before the end of 2025.
Before you begin loading your cart with holiday gifts and goodies, remember to protect yourself and follow basic cybersecurity strategies that make it difficult for criminals to steal the joy out of your season.
Here are some tips:
- Update the operating systems and software on all devices. This fixes known vulnerabilities that would otherwise give hackers access to your information.
- Check that the sites you use are secure. Look for a lock symbol or HTTPS in the URL.
- Verify that websites are legitimate before entering personal information. Watch for unusually low prices or poor site design, as these may indicate scams.
- Avoid using public Wi-Fi for shopping activities. It may be convenient, but public Wi-Fi is not always secure and may expose your personal information to criminals.
- Use strong, unique passwords and turn on Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) for every account. Never reuse passwords. Two-Factor Authentication is an extra layer of protection.
- Use Passkeys on supported sites. A verified device keeps your account safer. Many major retailers now offer this option.
- Never share usernames, passwords, or 2FA codes. Legitimate organizations will never ask but criminals will! They use the information to steal from you.
Following these tips can help you alleviate some of the stress that tends to come with holidays and will frustrate cybercriminals who are looking to make their holidays merry and bright at your expense.