During the holidays, you want to focus on the festivities, not fraud. Here are five tips to help you avoid scams and protect your personal information so you can shop with confidence.
The holidays are here, and so are the deals. But while you’re searching for the perfect gift, scammers are searching for victims. Online shopping scams surge during the holiday season, so it’s more important than ever to shop wisely and safeguard your personal information.
Here are five must-know tips to keep your holiday shopping safe:
- Stick to trusted retailers. Before you click “Buy Now,” verify the seller. Look for secure URLs (https://), clear contact details, and positive purchase reviews. Avoid purchasing from sites that don’t seem reputable. Doing so can put your money and personal information at risk.
- Use secure payment methods. Credit cards offer the best protection when shopping online. Avoid using instant payment apps like Zelle® or Venmo when making purchases from strangers. These apps are designed to send money to people you know and trust, not online sellers.
- Be wary of urgency tactics. Scammers often combine urgency with unrealistic deals and vague seller details. If something seems rushed and suspicious, skip the purchase and take a moment to check the seller’s credibility.
- Protect your personal information. Legitimate sellers will never ask for sensitive details like PINs, one-time codes, or bank account numbers. If someone asks for this information, it’s most likely a scam. Do not proceed with the transaction.
- Monitor your accounts. Check your bank and credit card statements regularly. If you spot suspicious activity, report it to your credit card company or financial institution right away.
Can You Use Zelle® for Online Shopping?
Zelle is fast and convenient but not ideal for online shopping. It doesn’t offer the same protections as credit or debit cards. Think of Zelle like cash: once you send money to an enrolled recipient, the payment can’t be canceled, and your dispute options are limited. If you authorize a payment and don’t receive what you paid for, a refund is not guaranteed. That’s why it’s important to understand Zelle’s Terms and Conditions before sending money. Only use Zelle with people you know and trust and not with strangers selling items online.
Holiday shopping should be fun, not risky. Remember: if a deal feels suspicious, trust your instincts and walk away. Stay safe, shop smart, and make this season one to remember for all the right reasons.
Want more tips on protecting your finances? Visit our Fraud Prevention and Account Security Center for more information.
