While most of us finished our holiday shopping weeks ago, some of us are still out there trying to navigate the malls, big box stores or outlets. In the interest of time and trying to get out of the store so we can spend quality time with loved ones, record speed shopping trips often take priority over making sure the way we shop is safe and secure. Here are five tips to ensure your safety as you make your holiday purchases. They apply now as well as any time of year.
1) Keep your personal items in sight at all times: This one seems obvious, but when you have a thousand things on your mind it is easier said than done. Try to be mindful to not leave your handbag, wallet or shopping bags unattended. With the rush of the shopping crowd, you never know what kind of sinister person may be lurking about with bad intentions to steal your stuff.
2) “Dip” your card instead of “swiping”: You may notice something different when you get to the register to pay for merchandise this season. Instead of “swiping” your card, you will be “dipping” it. This has to do with the new chip cards banks have been issuing. This “chip” creates a one-time code when you dip it into the machine that can’t be passed on, counterfeited or duplicated. It’s an added layer of protection so your personal information can’t get compromised like we saw in years past. But don’t fret if your information does get compromised. As a consumer, you are in no way liable for purchases made to your card. Call your bank immediately and they will handle it and if need be, send you a new card.
3) Stay aware in the parking lot: These days, parking lots are well-lit with security cameras on every other pole. But even if you see a security guard circling the lot every two minutes, it doesn’t mean you should throw caution to the wind. When you leave a store or mall, make sure you have your keys in hand ready to open the door. Don’t linger with doors open; make sure you put your packages in, get yourself in and lock the doors and drive away. And just because you are shopping in daylight doesn’t mean you shouldn’t be aware. These rules apply whether you are shopping at night or during the day.
4) Shop at legitimate online stores: Yes, everyone wants to get the best prices on items specifically when you feel pressed for time. If you come across a site that you’ve never heard of offering discounts of up to 80 to 90 percent on items you know shouldn’t be on massive discount, or if it’s unclear where the business is based out of, do not shop there. Many times, personal information is stolen through sites that pretend to real businesses. And live by this shopping mantra: “If a deal seems too good to be true, it probably is.”
Be aware that spoof websites can be difficult to detect. The address bar and padlock can be faked. As a general rule of thumb, it is safer to type in a web address than to click on a link, and use previously saved trusted favorites. Also, look for “https” (vs. “http”) in the web address. The “s” indicates the web site encrypts the traffic to your browser.
5) Don’t give up your personal information if a credit card company is asking for it via email: Fun fact: if your credit card company has a question about your account they will call you or in some cases text you. They do not send emails. So if you see an email that looks like official correspondence from your bank, don’t respond. Likewise, beware of familiar looking links in emails or texts that redirect you to a fraudulent web site. It could be a phishing situation where unsavory people are trying to get access to your personal information. Instead, call your bank and let them know you received said email.
Shopping doesn’t have to be a stressful situation. In fact, it’s one of the better parts of the holiday season. Just remember to stay aware when you are out, be mindful of how you are paying for merchandise and keep note of “official” correspondence coming your way to ensure your holidays are bright and full of light and cheer!
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5 Ways to Stay Safe While Shopping originally appeared on usnews.com
