The holiday season is a time for joy and giving, and many turn to online shopping for its ease and convenience.

However, as we shop from the comfort of home, it's important to stay alert to the risks of online scams.


According to data from the Better Business Bureau (BBB), there was a staggering 125% increase in reported scams last year, making it clear that cybercriminals are becoming more audacious in their attempts to swindle holiday shoppers.

But fear not! By staying informed and vigilant, we can outsmart these digital grinches.


The four-letter shield: “HTTPS”
David Lazarus, a business columnist, shared a crucial piece of advice for all internet users: before you enter your card details on any website, take a moment to examine the URL in your browser's address bar.

What you're looking for is a small but mighty four-letter word: “https”.

This “s” at the end of “http” signifies that your connection to the website is secure, thanks to a technology called Secure Sockets Layer (SSL).

It's like a digital seal that keeps prying eyes away from your sensitive information.

The padlock promise​

In addition to “https”, many secure websites will display a padlock icon near the URL.

This is another indicator that the website has taken measures to protect your data.

It's a visual cue that says, “Your information is safe here.”

Beware of typos and traps​

Scammers are cunning and rely on the smallest of details to deceive.

A common trick is to create websites with URLs that mimic legitimate ones, with slight spelling errors that can easily go unnoticed.

Always double-check the spelling of the URL. A single misplaced letter could lead you into a scammer's trap.

In a related story, find out which websites spell trouble for Chrome, Safari, and Firefox users.

Bank-smart tips to dodge scams​

As we navigate the digital marketplace, it's essential to arm ourselves with knowledge. Here are some bank-savvy tips to keep your finances secure:

• If a deal seems too good to be true, especially on social media, approach with skepticism.
• Don't let panic dictate your actions. Scammers use urgency to cloud judgment.
• Customers are advised to verify any unexpected funds before taking action.
• Avoid sending money to people you've only interacted with online or by phone.
• Never grant remote access to your device unless you're certain of the individual's identity.
• Stay alert at ATMs and never accept help from strangers.
• Disregard messages about unexpected prizes, especially if they ask you to click a link.
• Research retailers before making purchases, particularly those advertised on social media.

The emotional cost of scams​

Scams do more than just drain bank accounts; they can be emotionally devastating.

Latonya Jackson's experience is a cautionary tale. After purchasing gift cards for her community, she was mortified to learn they had been tampered with, leaving recipients empty-handed.

This holiday season, let's pledge to keep our bank accounts—and our peace of mind—intact.

By paying attention to the URL, looking for “https”, and following the tips above, we can enjoy the convenience of online shopping without the worry.

Remember, a little caution goes a long way in protecting your hard-earned money. Happy, safe shopping to all!
Have you or someone you know encountered an online scam? What measures do you take to ensure your online shopping is secure? Share your experiences and tips in the comments below.